Former Nigeria International, Duke Udi, has advocated for the appointment of a foreign head coach for the Super Eagles, citing concerns over potential tribalism that could arise with a Nigerian coach selection.
Udi emphasized the need to avoid undue pressure and influence in the selection process, suggesting that a foreign coach would prioritize merit and competence in player selection.
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“I will always tell the NFF that because of our complexity or the composition of the Nigerian environment, we are divided already,” he remarked. “Let’s be realistic.”
According to Udi, a foreign coach would approach the job without biases based on ethnicity or tribal affiliations.
“He’s not a Yoruba, Delta, or Hausa man,” Udi explained. “He’s just coming to do his work and do his job well because he wants to get results, and he wants to make a name for himself.”
Udi highlighted the potential pitfalls of selecting a Nigerian coach, suggesting that accusations of tribal favouritism could undermine team cohesion.
“When you bring in a Nigerian coach now, they will say, Okay, he picked seven Ibo boys. He’s an Ibo coach,” he elaborated.
“But once you bring a foreigner, he is here to do the job that he came here to do and also get results because it’s what brought him here.”
By advocating for a foreign coach, Udi aims to promote fairness, professionalism, and a results-driven approach within the Super Eagles setup, ultimately seeking to enhance the team’s performance on the international stage.
