Don't treat Africa as your Plan B, Obi Tells Foreign Players

On his podcast, The Obi One, on Friday, Obi revealed this while talking about African talents and their hesitation to serve their country, preferring to wait to be called up by other nations.

"I've discussed guys not representing their African heritage a lot. "Listen, you are Nigerian, your dad is Nigerian, your mum is Nigerian. Why don't you represent your fatherland, Nigeria?" we have urged in meetings with these children and their parents. said the 37-year-old.

"We want to play for England, France, or any other country, and then they wait, and wait, and wait."

"They contact Nigeria when they reach the age of 25 or 26 and they don't hear from England. We must not be viewed as backup plans. We are not backup plans. You ought to feel honored to represent your African nation and to be proud of your African heritage.

Numerous gifted Nigerians, including Jamal Musiala, Michael Olise, Eberechi Eze, Bukayo Saka, and many more, chose to play for other nations rather than the Super Eagles.

Early exposure to and subsequent incorporation into the cultures of these countries have been suggested as causes for players making a living outside of their home country.

But Obi is certain that the greatest African talent must return to their home nation.

"You would want to make a choice and stick with it because I want the top players to play in Africa. If you make the decision to play for England, be dedicated to it and wait." He said.

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