As players born abroad continue to grow in number among African teams , some Nigerians are not comfortable with the trend as they feel it will in a way hinder the development of players born in Nigeria.
For instance all the five teams from Africa who represented the continent at the World Cup in Qatar have at least ten players born abroad or who have represented other nations at youth level in their squad.
Speaking to OwnGoalNigeria.com, Celestine Babayaro said the surest way for the Super Eagles to stay competive is by also scouting for players born abroad, who are eligible for the team just like other countries are doing.
” You see the team of Morocco and it’s clear to see why they have come this far at the World Cup. They have players with sound football education and also discipline. Their major advantage was scouting for players born abroad and bringing them into the team”, he told OwnGoalNigeria.com.
” It’s about time we step up our search for these players and not limit it to just the ones born here. A proper blend is what is powering most African teams and I don’t think any one of them can succeed without players born abroad. They are your citizens as well”, he rounded up.
