Fans voice frustration as Akwa United struggles in NPFL: What is the problem?

Akwa United’s poor start to the 2024/2025 Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) season has raised concerns among fans. The club, currently sitting 18th in the 20-team standings after eight matchdays, has managed only one win. Their latest result—a goalless draw against Rangers International FC at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium—has further heightened frustrations.

After narrowly avoiding relegation last season, Coach Baba Ganaru’s side is once again in a precarious position. The recent draw led SportsRation’s Nsikakabasi Akpan to ask fans on social media: What is the problem with Akwa United? The responses reflect a wide range of opinions from recruitment issues to mismanagement.

Fans’ Opinions on Akwa United’s Problems

1. Poor Recruitment Decisions
   • Some fans believe that the recruitment strategy has backfired, citing the signing of 16 new players as disruptive to the team’s chemistry.
   • “Na their recruitment is the problem; the quality is too low, especially in the attacking and midfield areas,” said Ubon Archibong.
   • Enobong Ibanga lamented that the club often sells its best players without proper replacements, questioning “How can a team like Akwa United be doing open screenings?”
2. Pressure and Psychological Issues
   • Idy Asuquo suggested that players are feeling the pressure to perform, saying: “They need to calm their nerves and play as a unit; the results will come.”
   • Ndifreke Effiong Bassey noted that the lack of leadership on the field and absence of key players like Ubong Friday have impacted the team’s performance.
3. Management and Coaching Criticised
   • Many fans pointed fingers at the club’s management, claiming they are not running the team professionally. “The problem starts from the management,” said Edidem Obongama, who questioned decisions like sacking former coach Kennedy Boboye.
   • Some fans, like Emmanuel Andy, believe the coaching staff is also to blame, saying: “Poor management, poor coach, poor players.”
4. Spiritual and Cultural Issues Raised
   • Victor Okonulo introduced a spiritual angle, alleging that the club’s struggles might be linked to unresolved issues with former players and staff. He said: “Akwa United needs forgiveness and mercy from God.”
5. Calls for Changes in the Squad and Management
   • Fans like Shaggy Di Maria recommended drastic measures: “Sack the coach, sack undetermined players. It’s disappointing.”
   • Some, such as Ememobong Casemiro Jnr, remained optimistic: “It’s just a hard start; they will come back strong and finish in the top four.”
6. Criticism of Facilities and Home Form
   • Samuel Ime Harry pointed to the Stadium as a factor behind the team’s struggles. Others noted that Akwa United’s inability to win home games is a major concern.
7. Players Lack Motivation and Cohesion
   • Essienie Jnr criticised the team’s lack of tactical play, saying: “The players are disorganised, no team spirit.” Similarly, Global Sport News urged the management to “sort things out and start giving us good results.”

What Lies Ahead for Akwa United?

With only one win in eight games, Akwa United faces a challenging season if they don’t resolve these internal issues. Fans have expressed disappointment with recruitment, management decisions, and the team’s performance under pressure. The club must quickly find solutions to avoid being drawn into another relegation battle.

The message from the fans is loud and clear: Akwa United needs to refocus, address internal challenges, and rebuild team morale if they are to turn their season around.