Enugu Rangers technical adviser Fidelis Ilechukwu has played down speculation over his future at the club, choosing instead to focus on a long-term development plan anchored on a strong academy structure.
Speaking at a pre-match conference ahead of Sunday’s Nigeria Premier Football League clash against Warri Wolves at the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium, Ilechukwu was asked about reports linking him to a possible four-year contract extension following his current one-year deal, which expires in May.
He declined to address the rumours directly, responding, “Is it not better to talk about football?”
Turning attention to Rangers’ long-term strategy, Ilechukwu said the club’s future lies in building a sustainable foundation that can outlive any individual.
“The phrase ‘in a few years to come’ matters a lot when there is a strong foundation. What we are trying to do, and what the general manager has done so far, is lay a foundation,” he said.
“If tomorrow I’m not around, the next person will build on that foundation. That is how everything should be done. If there is no solid foundation, people cannot take over properly.”
Fresh from national team duties with the Super Eagles at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, Ilechukwu explained that Rangers’ foundation is centred on a structured academy system spanning multiple age grades.
“When players graduate from these levels, they are prepared for the senior team. We are providing proper equipment and structured training sessions, establishing a main training base that will not be changed. This allows a smooth progression from U-10 to U-15, U-19 and eventually to the first team,” he said.
He revealed that the club aims to rely largely on homegrown talent in the coming years.
“In the next three to four years, Rangers will aim to sign only about 30 per cent of players from outside, with 70 per cent coming from the feeder academy. That is the greatest foundation we can build.”
On his own future, Ilechukwu said he would only remain at Rangers under conditions that allow him to balance professional and personal considerations.
“I don’t want to force myself to stay. I also don’t want to stay because of convenience when I have other options. But if the club values my presence and is willing to meet the conditions I desire, then I will stay,” he said.
Rangers officials have welcomed his return from national team duty, describing the coach as bringing experience “back home where it matters most.”
Ilechukwu stressed that the club’s progress would not stall even if he eventually departs.
“Even if I am not around, the foundation we have built will allow progress to continue. The ‘few years to come’ will matter because the foundation will be strong,” he said.
Rangers are expected to intensify preparations under his guidance as they continue their NPFL campaign.
