Nigerian football legend Christian Chukwu expressed deep concerns over the current state of the Super Eagles, asserting that the nation lacks a cohesive national team. Chukwu, fondly known as Chairman, emphasized the need for the team's coach, Jose Peseiro, to reside in Nigeria to tap into local football talent and create a more integrated squad.
Chukwu, a guest on Channels Sports Sunday, urged for a shift in the training approach, advocating for the inclusion of local players alongside their foreign-based counterparts. "We don't have a team," he stated, underscoring the importance of nurturing homegrown talent.
The football icon passionately argued, "Let's come back home, all those playing overseas are good players. They have the opportunities, we have those players back home who are equally good but they don't have that opportunity to go abroad and play." Chukwu suggested that by bringing the coach to Nigeria, there could be a more comprehensive development strategy that includes both local and foreign players.
As a former coach of the Super Eagles from 2003 to 2006, Chukwu drew on his experience, stating, "As far as I am concerned, we don't have a national team now because even our coach stays abroad, he comes with the players to come and play and travel again. He should come and reside here; let us work together."
The football legend also shared personal anecdotes, recalling how his football success transformed his father's butchery business. Initially hesitant about his son's football pursuits, Chukwu's father saw a surge in customers as the footballer's name gained prominence. This personal history added a unique touch to Chukwu's perspective on the importance of football in shaping individual destinies.
Chukwu's remarks open a new chapter in the ongoing conversation about the development of Nigerian football, inviting reflection on the balance between foreign exposure and local talent cultivation.
