‘Nothing like that’ – Stanley Nwabali says foreign and local coaches get equal respect from Super Eagles players
Super Eagles goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali has weighed in on the long-standing debate over whether Nigeria’s national football team should be managed by a foreign or local coach.
Following the failed appointment of German manager Bruno Labbadia and the subsequent interim appointment of Austin Eguavoen, opinions have been divided.
With Real Betis legend Finidi George’s resignation and Super Eagles star Victor Osimhen’s controversial comments about George, the question of the players’ respect for local versus foreign coaches has resurfaced.
In an interview with Football Fans Tribe while in the Super Eagles camp in Uyo, Nwabali emphasised that the coach’s nationality does not influence the players’ attitude or performance. He explained that the players are motivated by their commitment to the team and the country rather than who is in charge on the sidelines.
Speaking in Nigerian Pidgin English, Nwabali said, “Fans will always have their opinions; you can’t change that. You can’t tell me the European coaches are more respected—nothing like that. One of the greatest coaches of the Super Eagles is Stephen Keshi, a Nigerian.”
Nwabali also stressed that the focus should be on results, irrespective of the coach’s nationality. He noted that players across Europe play under managers from various countries and perform at their best, adding that it is the badge and country they represent, not the coach. “The coach is a mere employee,” Nwabali stated. “We are not playing for the coach; we are playing for Nigeria.”
The goalkeeper also expressed his well wishes to whoever is in charge of the team, assuring that the players will always give their best, no matter who leads them.
