🇳🇬 John Utaka Appointed Montpellier Women’s Head Coach in Historic Ligue 1 Féminine Role

 

Former Nigeria international John Utaka has been named head coach of Montpellier’s women’s side, becoming the only African manager in France’s top-tier women’s league.

Zig Diaries Sports
Date: Saturday, 9 August 2025
Time: 15:00 WAT
Location: 📍Montpellier, France

Utaka’s appointment marks a historic moment for African coaches in European women’s football.

Former Nigeria international John Utaka has been named the new head coach of Montpellier’s women’s side in France, replacing outgoing manager Frédéric Mendy.

French outlet Ouest-France reports that the 43-year-old will share duties with Baptiste Merle until the end of the season, under the guidance of sporting director Jean-Louis Saez. The appointment makes Utaka the only African head coach in the French women’s top flight.

Utaka’s connection to Montpellier runs deep. During his playing career, he helped the men’s team clinch the 2011–12 Ligue 1 title, famously scoring twice in the decisive final match to secure the club’s first-ever championship.

He returned in 2020 as an attacking coach for the youth setup, later managing the women’s side briefly in 2021. Since retiring in 2018, Utaka has earned his UEFA A Licence and most recently served as assistant coach for Montpellier’s U19 men’s team.

Currently fifth in Division 1 Féminine with 27 points from 19 matches, Montpellier trail third-placed Bordeaux by 11 points, with PSG and Lyon leading the table. Utaka will also reunite with Nigerian international Ifeoma Onumonu, who joined Montpellier earlier this year.

Known for his composed leadership and attacking philosophy, Utaka’s appointment is expected to bring discipline, teamwork, and flair to Montpellier’s run-in to the season.

Fact-check & background context:

• John Utaka’s Ligue 1 title with Montpellier confirmed (2011–12 season).
• UEFA A Licence obtained in 2022.
• Montpellier women’s current league position verified with official Division 1 Féminine standings.

🏷️Tags: John Utaka, Montpellier, Division 1 Féminine, Ifeoma Onumonu, Nigerian Football, Ligue 1 Féminine

#JohnUtaka #Montpellier #WomensFootball #Nigeria #D1F