Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Guardian Nigeria
Published on 2024-04-14 04:47:34
The recent decision made by the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) to reappoint Manu Garba as the head coach of the National U17 team, the Golden Eaglets, has sparked controversy among some Nigerians. While Garba led the team to victory in the FIFA U-17 Championships in 2013 and 2015, some believe that it is time for new blood and fresh ideas to take the helm.
During Garba’s tenure, the Golden Eagles emerged victorious in the U-17 Championships in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) in 2013. The team managed to retain their title in 2015 under coach Emmanuel Amunike, who had previously served as Garba’s assistant. However, the team’s performance declined under coach Nduka Ugbade, failing to qualify for the last FIFA U-17 World Cup by losing their final group game to Burkina Faso.
Renowned former coach of Eko United FC and ex-Green Eagles winger, Adegoke Adelabu, expressed his disagreement with Garba’s reappointment by the NFF. Adelabu emphasized the importance of diversifying coaching opportunities to nurture a new generation of skilled coaches. He believes that the U-17 team plays a crucial role in the development of Nigerian football and should be led by capable tacticians who have a keen eye for identifying potential Super Eagles players.
Adelabu, who is a Sports Scientist and former player of IICC Shooting Stars of Ibadan, highlighted the need for ongoing evaluation and education of coaches to improve their technical and tactical skills. He advocated for a revamped approach to player recruitment, suggesting that the focus should be on young talented student soccer players rather than relying on over-aged players from soccer academies.
Former Director of Sports at Delta State Sports Council, Seigha Porbeni, echoed Adelabu’s sentiments regarding Garba’s reappointment. Porbeni suggested that the decision was influenced more by tribal or federal character rather than professionalism or competence. He emphasized the importance of giving other coaches the opportunity to lead the Golden Eaglets and contribute fresh perspectives to the team’s development.
In essence, the controversy surrounding Manu Garba’s reappointment as the head coach of the Golden Eaglets reflects a larger debate within the Nigerian football community about the importance of diversity and meritocracy in coaching appointments. While Garba’s past successes with the team are undeniable, some believe that it is time for a fresh approach to nurture the next generation of Nigerian football talent. Ultimately, the NFF will need to consider a balanced approach that takes into account both experience and innovation in coaching selections.
