Obuh Blames Interference for Golden Eaglets’ Decline
Former Golden Eaglets head coach John Obuh has attributed Nigeria’s recent struggles at the U-17 level to undue interference from agents and administrators in player selection, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.
Obuh, who guided the Golden Eaglets to a silver medal at the 2009 FIFA U-17 World Cup, expressed concern over the growing influence of external parties in team affairs, which he believes has negatively impacted performance and development.
In an interview, the experienced tactician stressed that poor preparation and off-pitch distractions have contributed to the team’s inability to qualify for recent major tournaments.
“Bringing the likes of Emmanuel Amuneke back, who won with the Eaglets, isn’t the issue; it’s the attention being given to them that matters,” Obuh said.
He further highlighted systemic issues affecting team selection, including favoritism and lack of accountability.
“I think there is a lot of interruptions in the selection of players today. A lot of people want their players to be picked. There’s the question of nepotism and tribalism. We don’t have a coach that will say, ‘I am selecting my team, if I fail, sack me.’ Unfortunately, most of them today play into the hands of the person who gave them the job,” he added.
Obuh’s comments reflect ongoing concerns about grassroots football development in Nigeria, with calls growing for reforms to ensure merit-based selection and better preparation for youth national teams.
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