The corridors of Kwara United Football Club are buzzing with the palpable tension of impending change. Following the team's devastating exit from the CAF Confederation Cup, the club's hierarchy has been forced into a brutal reassessment, setting in motion a chain of events that could redefine the team's leadership and trajectory for the upcoming NPFL season.
Informed sources close to the club's board have exclusively revealed to our sports desk that head coach Tunde Sanni, the man who led the team to continental qualification, has been handed a stern three-match ultimatum to save his job when the 2025 Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL26) season commences.
Simultaneously, in a move that signals the preparation of a contingency plan, the same sources indicate that the club is actively considering a familiar face to steer the ship: former Abia Warriors and Gombe United tactician, Aliyu Zubairu.
The Continental Dream That Fizzled
The catalyst for this turmoil was Kwara United's premature departure from the CAF Confederation Cup. The "Afonja Warriors," carrying the hopes of Kwara State into the continental arena, failed to make it past the preliminary rounds. The performance, described by one board member as "lacking the required fight and tactical discipline," was a significant financial and reputational blow to the ambitious club.
This continental failure has cast a long shadow over the team's pre-season, transforming what should have been a period of building on success into one of critical evaluation. The board, under pressure from stakeholders, believes that such a high-profile setback cannot be overlooked, especially with the intensified competition expected in the NPFL26.
The Ultimatum: Three Matches to Prove a Point
Tunde Sanni, who was hailed as a hero just months ago for securing the coveted continental spot, now finds himself on the hottest of seats. Our sources confirm that he was summoned to a closed-door meeting earlier this week where the terms of his ultimatum were laid bare.
"The board appreciates what Tunde has achieved, but football is a result-oriented business," a source, who spoke on condition of anonymity, stated. "The manner of the CAFCC exit raised serious questions. He has been told in clear terms that the team must secure a minimum of seven points from their first three NPFL matches. Anything less, and the board will be left with no choice but to make an immediate change."
This ultimatum places immense pressure on Sanni from the very first whistle of the new season. It is a test not just of results, but of the team's morale, tactical approach, and ability to bounce back from a crushing disappointment. Every team selection, every substitution, will be scrutinized under the microscope of this looming deadline.
The Successor-in-Waiting: Aliyu Zubairu's Impending Return
While Sanni fights for his professional life, the club's management is not leaving things to chance. In a clear sign that they are preparing for all eventualities, Kwara United has identified Aliyu Zubairu as the prime candidate to take over the reins should a change become necessary.
Zubairu is a well-respected figure in Nigerian football circles, known for his tactical organization and ability to build resilient, hard-to-beat teams. His work at Abia Warriors, where he consistently punched above the club's weight, earned him widespread acclaim. He is a coach who specializes in instilling discipline and a strong defensive structure—attributes the Kwara United board felt were conspicuously absent in their continental campaign.
"Aliyu Zubairu is seen as a safe pair of hands," another source explained. "He understands the dynamics of the NPFL, he has experience, and his philosophy aligns with the need for a solid foundation. Preliminary discussions have already taken place to gauge his interest, and the feedback has been positive. He is ready to step in if called upon."
A Club at a Crossroads
This developing situation places Kwara United at a significant crossroads. The decision to stick with Sanni offers continuity and rewards past success, but risks a slow start derailing the entire season. Opting for Zubairu represents a decisive break and a new tactical direction, but comes with the inherent risk of any managerial change and the time needed to implement new ideas.
For the players, this period of uncertainty will be a test of their mental fortitude. They must rally behind Coach Sanni for the crucial opening fixtures, all while knowing that a new manager is waiting in the wings.
As the countdown to NPFL26 begins, all eyes will be on Kwara United. The first three matchdays are no longer just about points on the board; they are a referendum on a coach's future and the trigger for what could be the next major managerial appointment in the Nigerian top flight. The ultimatum has been set, the potential successor named. The ball is now in Tunde Sanni's court.