The Super Eagles squad currently houses two of the 2015 FIFA U-17 World Cup winners in Samuel Chukwueze and Victor Osimhen, Soccernet.ng reports.
One of the stars of the tournament tipped to become the next big thing for Nigerian football was Kelechi Nwakali, but he’s not managed to match his level of discipline to that of his talent.
The 27-year-old joined Arsenal after winning the Golden Boy in Chile, although he didn’t make a senior appearance for the Gunners. Loan spells at VVV Venlo, and Porto followed, but none were able to launch him into stability as his attitude problems cost him at Huesca.
He’s now suffered the same fate with EFL League One Barnsley, falling out with the club hierarchy who in turn, want to move him on despite just joining about a year ago.
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Former Super Eagles and Enyimba International forward, Victor Ezeji hasn’t held back in tearing into Nwakali for not making the most of the brilliant talent bestowed upon him.
“This is the second time I remember he has had this particular incident. It all boils down to discipline. We are easily carried away with fame,” the two-time CAF Champions League winner said in quotes revealed by Brila.
“Till date, I’m yet to see anyone that can play as a number 10 like Nwakali, but his attitude is the biggest problem.
“During their U-17 days, he was the star boy, but after that tournament, we don’t know what happened to him—maybe it’s fame or ‘village people,’ only God knows. I always tell these boys that fame is good, but learn to manage it.”
“You will become a superstar, but how you live your life determines everything. That is very important. You have to discipline yourself.
“How will you come to Nigeria for holiday and not think of going back? Overstaying isn’t the problem, but you must communicate with your team.
“Say, ‘I have one or two challenges, please give me about two to five days.’ The club will usually tell you, ‘Do whatever you want to do and come back.’
“When I was in Tunisia, it happened sometimes. I asked for permission, and they told me to take one more week and return immediately, but our own—when they come back, they become kings here because all their friends are around them. They will play till they forget they are meant to go back.”
“Nwakali needs someone to talk to him. I have a friend who told me this boy is a great player, but he won’t go anywhere.
“I asked him why, and he said, ‘His attitude.’ That time he was in London, he met him there. He said they spoke at length, and he was arrogant.
“I hope he listens, because with players—when you advise them—they will avoid you. You become their enemy. They will start dodging you because you want to live that life.
“If he (Nwakali) listens, he has a chance to change his career. If not, it will be bad,” the 44-year-old concluded.
Nwakali’s career path is a testament that talent isn’t enough to make it to the top level of football. He joins a list of Nigerian youngsters who had the world at their feet but didn’t make the most of it.