Former Nigerian international, Yakubu Aiyegbeni, has expressed his support for the Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) to appoint a foreign coach for the Super Eagles. The former striker shared his opinion during an Instagram Live session hosted by Gaant Football. His remarks, made in Pidgin English, were straightforward: “Make we employ oyinbo for Nigeria.” This comment reflects Yakubu’s belief that hiring an experienced foreign coach could be a step in the right direction for the national team.
Expanding on this viewpoint, Yakubu’s suggestion underscores a broader trend in African football, where foreign coaches have often been perceived as bringing expertise, tactical discipline, and a fresh perspective. Many African nations, including Nigeria, have had success under foreign managers in the past. Yakubu’s comment hints at his confidence that the Super Eagles would benefit from such international experience to compete more effectively on the global stage, especially with the team preparing for crucial tournaments.
His statement also speaks to the ongoing debate among fans and stakeholders about the advantages and disadvantages of employing foreign coaches versus local ones. While some argue that local coaches understand the culture, players, and unique challenges of Nigerian football, others, like Yakubu, believe that foreign coaches often come with advanced training methods and a wealth of experience that could help the Super Eagles achieve greater consistency and success. His remarks have sparked discussions in the football community about the best path forward for Nigerian football.