Super Eagles Legends Advocate for Homegrown Talent

Former Nigerian internationals, including Emmanuel Amuneke, Etim Esin, and Azubuike Egwuekwu, have called for caution from the Nigeria Football Federation regarding the increasing number of foreign-born players seeking to represent the Super Eagles. They stress that while the interest in dual nationals is welcomed, the selection process must prioritize merit and not overlook homegrown talent.

Amuneke, who was part of the 1994 African Football Year, highlighted that the future of Nigerian football cannot rely solely on foreign academies. Esin, who participated in the 1987 FIFA World Youth Championship, pointed out the structural challenges within the domestic game, which contribute to the perceived gap between foreign-based and home-based players.

Egwuekwu, a member of Nigeria's victorious squad at the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), warned that ignoring the domestic league sends the wrong message about Nigerian football. The discussion comes as Nigeria prepares for the 2025 AFCON in Morocco, where the squad may include several dual nationals.