Rivers United assistant coach Yemi Olanrewaju has reaffirmed his commitment to the Port Harcourt club amid reports linking him with Shooting Stars. The coach says his immediate priority is helping Rivers United achieve their objectives during the 2026/27 Nigeria Premier Football League season.
Olanrewaju acknowledged that he has a strong connection with Shooting Stars and has previously been in contact with the Ibadan club. However, he stressed that those links will not distract him from his current responsibilities at Rivers United.
The coach said respect and loyalty remain important parts of his professional values. He therefore does not intend to abandon his contract midway through the campaign.
Olanrewaju also praised Rivers United's management for the confidence shown in him. He highlighted his relationship with head coach Finidi George, describing the bond between them as positive ahead of the new season.
The assistant coach said he was grateful for the support he has received from the club and its supporters. He added that messages from fans and their interactions on social media have encouraged him to work harder.
Rivers United will enter the 2026/27 campaign after finishing second in the previous NPFL season. The Port Harcourt club collected 67 points from 38 matches, finishing just one point behind champions Rangers International.
The club will also have continental football to consider, making squad preparation and coaching stability important. Rivers United are expected to balance their domestic campaign with their CAF commitments during a demanding season.
Olanrewaju's role will be particularly important as the coaching staff works with Finidi to prepare the squad. His continued presence provides stability as the team develops its plans for another title challenge.
Shooting Stars, meanwhile, remain a club with which Olanrewaju has a strong connection. The Ibadan side finished third in the 2025/26 NPFL season and will also enter the new campaign with continental ambitions.
The coach has not completely closed the door on a future move to Shooting Stars. He described the club as one he would be honoured to work with if another opportunity arises, but made it clear that there is no immediate switch on his agenda.
For now, Olanrewaju's attention remains firmly on Rivers United. His stated objective is to honour his agreement with the club and contribute fully to the team's ambitions throughout the 2026/27 season.
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