Nigerian Football Legend Sunday Oliseh Speaks Out Against Foreign Coaches
In a bold statement, former Nigerian national team captain Sunday Oliseh has reignited the debate over the appointment of foreign head coaches in African football. Speaking on Channels Sports, Oliseh expressed his strong opposition to the trend, arguing that competent indigenous coaches are being unfairly overlooked. "I am totally against having that role not being handed over to a Nigerian because we have qualified Nigerians who can do that job," he emphasized.
Oliseh’s comments come at a time when the Nigerian national team, the Super Eagles, are currently being coached by French-born Éric Chelle. Appointed by the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) in January 2025, Chelle has had a promising start, remaining unbeaten with three wins and two draws, including a notable 1-1 draw with Russia in June. However, Oliseh’s remarks suggest that the appointment of a foreign coach is not necessarily the best decision for the team’s long-term success.
As a former midfielder for renowned clubs like Juventus and Borussia Dortmund, Oliseh’s opinion carries significant weight in the football community. His concerns about the lack of opportunities for indigenous coaches are shared by many, who believe that local talent is being neglected in favor of foreign expertise. The debate raises important questions about the development of African football and the role of foreign coaches in shaping the continent’s football landscape.
The Nigerian Football Federation’s decision to appoint Chelle has sparked a lively discussion among football fans and pundits, with some arguing that the team’s current performance justifies the appointment of a foreign coach. However, Oliseh’s comments serve as a reminder that the issue goes beyond short-term results and highlights the need for a more sustainable approach to developing African football talent.
As the debate continues, one thing is clear: the appointment of foreign coaches in African football is a complex issue that requires careful consideration of the potential benefits and drawbacks. With Oliseh’s voice adding to the conversation, it is likely that the discussion will continue to gain momentum, ultimately contributing to a more nuanced understanding of the role of foreign coaches in African football.
