Former Nigeria international John Utaka has been appointed as head coach of French women’s top-flight side Montpellier Féminines.
The 43-year-old takes over from Senegal’s Frédéric Mendy, who was dismissed after a poor run of results in the D1 Arkema league.
Utaka will be assisted by Baptiste Marie and Jean-Louis Saez.
A familiar face in Montpellier, Utaka enjoyed a successful spell as a player with the club, winning the Ligue 1 title in the 2011/12 season.
John Utaka during his time in England with Portsmouth. Photo Credit: X
He scored twice on the final day against Auxerre to help secure a historic title win over Paris Saint-Germain.
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Following his retirement, the former RC Lens and Rennes striker joined Montpellier’s coaching ranks in 2020, working with the youth teams.
Utaka earned 48 caps for Nigeria between 2002 and 2011, representing the Super Eagles at two FIFA World Cups and three Africa Cup of Nations tournaments.
He was part of the squad that finished third at the 2006 tournament in Egypt.
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Before moving to France, Utaka played for clubs across Africa and the Middle East, including Arab Contractors and Ismaily in Egypt, and Al-Sadd in Qatar.
His appointment marks his first managerial role at senior level.
