Former Super Eagles forward and ex-Portsmouth star, John Utaka, has been appointed as the new head coach of the Montpellier Women’s team.
The 43-year-old previously served as a youth coach at Montpellier HSC and also runs a football academy in Minna, Niger State, Nigeria. Known for his passion for player development and tactical acumen, Utaka is expected to bring a fresh and disciplined approach to the team.
He holds a UEFA A coaching license and is currently working towards earning his UEFA Pro badge, with aspirations of coaching Nigeria’s U20 national team in the future.
Utaka enjoyed a remarkable playing career, making 496 club appearances and scoring 133 goals. He also earned 49 caps for the Super Eagles, netting six times.
His professional journey began with Rangers International in Nigeria and spanned clubs across Africa, Europe, and the Middle East, including El Mokawloon, Ismaily, Al-Sadd, Lens, Rennes, Portsmouth, Montpellier, Sivasspor, Nogoom, Aswan, and Sedan.



