Utaka
By Omowale Bola
John Utaka, the former Super Eagles forward, has been appointed as the new head coach of Montpellier’s women’s team in France, succeeding Frédéric Mendy. This historic move makes him the only African head coach in France’s top-tier women’s league, Division 1 Féminine. Utaka’s appointment is a significant milestone for African coaches in European women’s football, and fans will be eager to see how he brings his playing and coaching experience to bear in this new leadership role.
Utaka will share coaching duties with Baptiste Merle until the end of the current campaign, with both working closely under the guidance of sporting director Jean-Louis Saez. Montpellier’s women’s team currently sits fifth in the Division 1 Féminine standings with 27 points from 19 matches, 11 points adrift of third-placed Bordeaux, with PSG and Lyon occupying the top two spots.
The 43-year-old former player has a deep connection to Montpellier, having played for the club between 2011 and 2013. During his time there, he made a significant impact, helping Montpellier win the Ligue 1 title in the 2011-2012 season, scoring twice in the final match that sealed the historic championship. After retiring from professional football in 2018, Utaka transitioned into coaching and was appointed as the youth team coach at Montpellier in 2020, where he played a key role in talent development.
Utaka earned his UEFA A Licence in 2022 and has been working as an assistant coach with Montpellier’s U19 men’s team. Known for his calm leadership and attacking philosophy, Utaka’s appointment is expected to bring discipline, teamwork, and flair to Montpellier’s run-in to the season. He will also reunite with Nigerian international Ifeoma Onumonu, who joined Montpellier earlier this year.
With his experience and leadership skills, Utaka is well-positioned to guide the team through the final stretch of the season and lay a strong foundation for the future. Fans and club officials alike will be watching closely as Utaka looks to make a positive impact on the team
