Former Kwara United FC head coach Tunde Sanni has been appointed as the new manager of Jeunesse Sportive de Pobe FC, marking his return to the dugout barely five months after leaving his last role in Nigeria.

The 62-year-old tactician has signed a deal to lead the Benin Republic side until the end of the current season.

JS Pobe currently sit 14th on the 18-team league table, with the club hoping Sanni's experience will help stabilise their campaign and steer them away from the relegation zone.

From Ilorin to the Touchline

A native of Kwara State, Sanni rose to prominence during his most recent spell with Kwara United, guiding the club to a historic triumph in the President's Federation Cup in Lagos.

The victory marked the club's first major silverware in 49 years and stands as one of the highlights of his coaching career.

Sanni's football journey began over four decades ago in Ilorin, where he featured for local sides before moving to Shooting Stars SC in Ibadan.

His playing career also included spells with IBL FC Ilesha, First Bank FC Lagos, NEPA Lagos and Kwara Bombers, where he spent seven seasons before retiring.

He represented Nigeria at the World University Games in 1987 and 1993, gaining valuable international exposure early in his career.

After retiring, Sanni pursued formal coaching education, studying Physical and Health Education at Obafemi Awolowo University and earning a Higher Diploma in Coaching from the National Institute for Sports. He also holds a CAF B coaching licence.

A Wealth of Coaching Experience

Over the years, Sanni has worked with several Nigerian clubs, including ABS FC, DSS FC, APA United, SKE FC, Heartland FC, Abia Warriors and multiple stints with Kwara United, both as assistant and head coach.

Known for his disciplined and structured approach, Sanni's teams are typically well organised defensively while allowing attacking freedom in advanced areas.

During his last eight-month spell at Kwara United, he oversaw 52 matches, recording 25 wins and nine draws. In addition to the Federation Cup success, he also led the club to victory in the Kwara State FA Cup, underlining his strength in knockout competitions.

New Challenge in Benin Republic

At JS Pobe, the immediate task is to improve consistency and secure valuable points in the second half of the season.

With experience in rebuilding squads and managing tight league battles, the club will be banking on Sanni's organisational skills to steady results and climb the table.

For the veteran coach, the move to the Benin Republic represents a new chapter in a long football career built on preparation, discipline and belief in process. The coming months in Pobe will determine how far that experience can take his new side.