Former Super Eagles coach Sunday Oliseh has disclosed that the Nigerian Football Federation, NFF, cautioned him against inviting certain high-profile players to the national team when he assumed the role. Oliseh named John Obi Mikel, Vincent Enyeama, and Emmanuel Emenike as the players the NFF warned him about, citing their chaotic behavior as a reason. He expressed regret for not heeding the NFF's warning, which he believes could have prevented some of the issues he faced during his tenure.
Oliseh recounted his experience with John Obi Mikel, who was then playing for Chelsea. The former coach claimed he invited Mikel and Victor Moses for a meeting in London, using his personal funds to facilitate the gathering. However, Oliseh said Mikel refused to attend, describing this as one of the biggest insults he experienced. In contrast, Victor Moses showed up for the meeting and engaged in a productive discussion with Oliseh. The former coach attributed Mikel's behavior to his status as a player for a prominent club.
According to Oliseh, the NFF's warning about Mikel, Enyeama, and Emenike was due to their perceived chaotic influence on the team and the football federation. He noted that he had firsthand experience of the challenges posed by these players, which aligned with the concerns expressed by the NFF. Oliseh's comments were made during a viral podcast interview, where he shared his insights and reflections on his time as the Super Eagles coach.
The incident with Obi Mikel left a lasting impression on Oliseh, who traveled from Belgium to London for the meeting. Despite Mikel's rebuff, Oliseh chose not to take it personally and instead focused on the constructive conversation he had with Victor Moses. Oliseh praised Moses for his maturity and willingness to engage in open dialogue, which he believes is essential for a team's success.
Oliseh's comments have sparked a renewed debate about the dynamics within the Super Eagles during his coaching tenure. His reflections on the challenges he faced with certain players have provided a unique perspective on the inner workings of the team. The former coach emphasized the importance of respecting the position of the national team coach, regardless of individual players' backgrounds or achievements.
The relationship between Oliseh and Mikel appears to have been strained, with Oliseh questioning Mikel's attitude and sense of entitlement. He rhetorically asked where Mikel had played football that he hadn't, and what Mikel had achieved that he hadn't. Oliseh's remarks suggest that he values humility and a team-oriented approach over individual accomplishments or club affiliations.
Ultimately, Oliseh's experience with Mikel, Enyeama, and Emenike serves as a valuable lesson for future coaches and players. His story highlights the importance of effective communication, mutual respect, and a cohesive team culture in achieving success in international football. As the Nigerian football community continues to reflect on its past and present, Oliseh's insights offer a thought-provoking perspective on the complexities of coaching and team management.
Key points
- Oliseh regretted not listening to NFF's warning against inviting Mikel, Enyeama, and Emenike due to their chaotic behavior.
- Mikel refused to attend a meeting with Oliseh in London, citing his status as a Chelsea player.
- Oliseh emphasized the importance of respecting the national team coach's position, regardless of individual players' achievements.
