Heartland FC Technical Manager, Emmanuel Amuneke, says the disappointment of narrowly missing promotion last season has strengthened the club’s determination ahead of the 2026/27 Nigeria National League campaign.
The Naze Millionaires came within two points of achieving their promotion objective last term, a setback Amuneke admits remains painful but one he wants his players to use as motivation.
“We were so close to getting promoted, but we could not make it because of two points,” Amuneke said.
With the new season scheduled to begin in October, the former African Footballer of the Year is concentrating on building a side capable of going a step further.
Heartland have strengthened their squad with new players, while the extended preparation period has given the technical crew time to integrate the new arrivals.
“I am only interested in how to prepare the team to enable them to be ready to compete effectively, given the situation that everybody wants to see their team play very well and win matches,” he said.
Amuneke said Heartland would concentrate on their own preparations rather than measure themselves against other clubs, insisting that every team faces different circumstances.
He also welcomed Imo State’s hosting of the recent NNL Annual General Meeting in Owerri, describing it as an opportunity to project the state positively.
“We are happy that we hosted, and we have used it to showcase that Imo is safe and free from the wrong impressions being held against the state about insecurity,” he said.
Amuneke thanked Governor Hope Uzodimma for supporting the hosting of the meeting and for giving him the opportunity to serve the state through Heartland.
“The Governor brought me back from Spain to serve. I promised to remain who I am from day one. One thing I owe Imo people is truth and honesty,” he said.
As Heartland prepare for another attempt at returning to the Nigeria Premier Football League, Amuneke called on supporters, officials and other stakeholders to put the interest of the club first.
“Heartland FC is beyond Amuneke,” he said, stressing that collective support would be required for the club to achieve its objectives.
Heartland will begin their 2026/27 NNL campaign against Crown FC of Ogbomosho at the Dan Anyiam Stadium, Owerri, on October 31.
