John Utaka Tells Gattuso to Stop Complaining About Africa’s World Cup Places
Former Super Eagles winger John Utaka has told Italian manager Gennaro Gattuso to stop complaining about Africa’s number of places at the FIFA World Cup.
Gattuso recently said he was unhappy that Africa gets automatic slots at the tournament and suggested that Europe should receive more. His comments caused strong reactions across the football world, including a firm response from Utaka.
Speaking to Brila FM, Utaka said that FIFA is the only body that decides how many teams each continent gets, and the system must be fair.
Utaka said:
“FIFA is the governing body that decides which country should be at the World Cup. If everyone is complaining, then it must be equal.”
He questioned why Europe wants more slots even though it already receives the biggest share.
“If you give Europe five, then give others five as well so it’s even. Why should Europe get more than everyone else and still complain? It does not make sense.”
The former Nigeria international added that teams should qualify on the pitch, not because they feel entitled to extra places.
“If there are sixteen teams and you cannot qualify, that is your problem. He is speaking from frustration, I understand that, but I disagree with what he is saying.”
Utaka also made it clear that he respects Gattuso as both a player and a coach, but believes the Italian’s comments were wrong.
Africa now has more representation at the World Cup after FIFA expanded the tournament to 48 teams, giving the continent nine direct slots and one extra place through playoffs.
