2023 Africa Cup of Nations Most Valuable Player, William Troost-Ekong, has revealed that he prefers an indigenous coach to lead the Super Eagles.
Following the departure of former Super Eagles Coach, Jose Peseiro in February, the Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) has yet to announce a successor, despite the team facing two crucial FIFA World Cup qualifier games in June. Speaking in an interview with Nigeria Football legend, Segun Odegbami on his radio station, Eagles 7 103.7FM, Troost-Ekong expressed his belief that having a coach who understands the culture of the country and the players’ daily routines would be beneficial for the team. He cited examples such as Senegal and Ivory Coast, where indigenous coaches have succeeded.
However, the former Watford star also acknowledged his positive experiences under foreign coaches like Gernot Rohr, who led the team to the World Cup and AFCON semi-finals, and Jose Peseiro, who guided them to the AFCON final.
Troost-Ekong emphasized that the most important factor should be the coach’s ability to lead the team to success, regardless of nationality. He dismissed concerns about foreign-based players not respecting local coaches, stating that every manager commands their authority and that success on the field is what truly matters.
In conclusion, Troost-Ekong emphasized the need for the best decision to be made for the team’s success, whether it involves an indigenous or foreign coach, and called for unity and support regardless of the coach’s nationality. According to Reports, Emmanuel Amunike has been appointed to be the next Super Eagles Coach.
