EUROMATCH–NPFL: Yusuf Reveals Why He Left Coton FC For Shooting Stars

Shooting Stars SC Technical Adviser, Salisu Yusuf, says he left Benin Republic top-flight club Coton FC by mutual agreement before returning to Nigeria, Completesports.com reports.

The 64-year-old manager signed a two-year contract with Coton FC ahead of the 2025/2026 season, shortly after rescuing Nasarawa United from relegation in the 2024/2025 EuroMatch–NPFL campaign.

However, following a successful 2025/2026 campaign, the veteran tactician, who had previously managed top Nigerian clubs such as Rangers, Kano Pillars and Nasarawa United, departed the Beninese side and returned to Nigeria. He is now in charge of Shooting Stars Sports Club (3SC) of Ibadan.

Why Coton FC And Yusuf Parted Ways

Before Shooting Stars’ 2–0 defeat to Kun Khalifat in last Sunday’s 2026/2027 EuroMatch–NPFL Matchday 8 fixture in Owerri, Yusuf told Completesports.com that although he had signed an initial two-year contract with Coton FC, he parted ways with the club by mutual agreement.

Also Read: NPFL: Shooting Stars Name Salisu Yusuf New Technical Adviser

“Yes, it’s true that I had an initial two-year contract with Coton FC. But I left them by mutual agreement,” Salisu said.

Yusuf explained that he enjoyed a good working relationship with the club’s hierarchy and operated in a healthy working environment, adding that his departure was not the result of any disagreement.

Coton FC is owned by Lionel Talon, the eldest son of former Benin Republic President Patrice Talon. Following Patrice Talon’s departure from office in May 2026, the club’s owner decided against continuing to run the team at a high-profile level.

“So, at that point, we decided and agreed to part ways,” Salisu added.

Although Coton FC remains in the Benin Republic’s top division, the club now operates more as a talent identification and development centre, which is commonly referred to as a football academy.

Coach Chooses Shooting Stars Despite NPFL Other Interest

The former Super Eagles head coach disclosed that several unnamed Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) clubs expressed interest in his services following his return to the country.

“But eventually, I decided to come over to Shooting Stars Sports Club (3SC),” he concluded.