Young Nigerian coach inspired by Mourinho and Guardiola aims for CAF and UEFA licenses

A graduate of the National Institute of Sports, NIS, Gerrisyn Omokhodion, has set his sights on obtaining coaching licenses from both the Confederation of African Football, CAF, and the Union of European Football Associations, UEFA.

Omokhodion, who holds an advanced certificate in coaching and training and is currently immersed in a coaching internship with the newly created Nigeria National League, NNL, side Inter Lagos, is charting a course toward a promising career in the dugout.

Having played for Port Harcourt side, SKE FC, Omokhodion’s decision to go into coaching comes from a burning desire to contribute to the nurturing of budding players.

Inspired by the coaching styles and journeys of industry leaders like former Manchester United boss, Jose Mourinho, and Manchester City’s Pep Guardiola, the promising manager aspires to also leave a positive mark as he aims for higher milestones in the coaching world.

Speaking during an interview, the Lagos-based coach noted that he is currently interested in learning as much as he can about coaching.

“For now, i will keep learning and gaining more experience and also pursue other coaching certifications like CAF and UEFA,” he said.

“I think i can make a positive impact and i am very passionate about this job. I want to help players grow and achieve greater things.”

“Also, i want to learn from the very best; Pep and Mourinho inspire me a lot and coach Lucky (one of the coaches at Inter) as well.”

The coach also emphasised an insatiable passion he feels when he watches top coaches. 

“There is no perfect way of playing football,” Omokhodion added. 

In terms of his achievements, the coach also had stints at Hollando Football Academy, captained the Rivers United feeders and also represented Nigeria at the Global Copa Coca-Cola championship in 2014. 

He also won the Port Harcourt League and cup with SKE FC and the Super Cup with the Rivers Feeders.