Shooting Stars hire Salisu Yusuf as new Technical Adviser for upcoming season

Shooting Stars Sports Club has named former Super Eagles coach Salisu Yusuf as their new Technical Adviser ahead of the 2026/27 Nigeria Premier Football League season.

The club in Ibadan shared Yusuf’s appointment in a statement. They called him a valuable addition to their technical team as the Oluyole Warriors get ready for a new season that will include continental games.

Yusuf returns to the NPFL after ending his time with Coton FC in the Benin Republic in June. He joined the club in August 2025 and led them to second place in the Beninese league before both sides agreed to part ways.

The 64-year-old coach has over 20 years of experience in football management. He started his coaching career with Nasarawa United in 2002. Since then, he has worked with various Nigerian clubs like Kano Pillars, Enugu Rangers, and Enyimba.

International Experience

On the international scene, Yusuf has been involved with several Nigerian national teams. He served as an assistant coach for the Super Eagles and also managed the Super Eagles B and Nigeria Under-23 teams.

One of his key achievements was in 2018 when he took the home-based Super Eagles to the final of the African Nations Championship (CHAN) in Morocco.

Shooting Stars mentioned that Yusuf’s experience, knowledge of Nigerian football, and ability to nurture local players were some of the reasons for his appointment.

"His wealth of experience, deep understanding of Nigerian football and proven ability to work with and develop homegrown talent make him a valuable addition to our technical setup as we prepare for the challenges ahead," the club said.

The club also noted that Yusuf is expected to bring "strong leadership, tactical expertise and a winning mentality" as Shooting Stars aim for success in both domestic and continental competitions.

Yusuf’s appointment follows the recent departure of head coach Nurudeen Aweroro and his technical team.

Aweroro, Team Manager Tammy Tamuno, and Assistant Coach Shakiru Lawal left the club by mutual agreement after a successful 2025/26 season.

Aweroro led Shooting Stars to third place in the NPFL, earning 60 points from 38 matches and securing a spot in the 2026/27 CAF Confederation Cup.

This achievement ended a 27-year wait for the club to return to continental football. Their last appearance was in 1999 after they won the league in 1998.

Aweroro’s exit leaves the club with the task of preparing for a new season and the long-awaited return to African competition.

With Yusuf now on board, the Oluyole Warriors will aim to build on last season’s success while managing their domestic league and their return to the CAF Confederation Cup.