Sunday Oliseh Criticizes Reliance on Foreign Coaches, Calls for More Opportunities for Nigerian Managers
Former Super Eagles captain and coach Sunday Oliseh has voiced strong opposition to the continued appointment of foreign managers to lead Nigeria’s national football team.
Speaking on Channels Sports, Oliseh argued that qualified Nigerian coaches possess the necessary skills and experience to manage the Super Eagles and should be given the chance to do so.
Oliseh’s remarks come amid the tenure of French-born Éric Chelle, who was appointed by the Nigeria Football Federation in January 2025.
Chelle has enjoyed a promising start, remaining unbeaten in his first five matches, including a 1-1 draw against Russia in June.
Despite this, Oliseh warned that depending on expatriate coaches undermines the development of local talent and reflects a lack of confidence in Nigerian coaches.
A former defensive midfielder known for his tactical acumen, Oliseh played for top European clubs such as Ajax, Borussia Dortmund, and Juventus.
As Super Eagles coach from 2015 to 2016, he recorded just two losses in 14 matches before resigning over contractual disputes.
Beyond coaching appointments, Oliseh criticized the trend of national team captains not regularly featuring in matches, calling it “an anomaly.”
He emphasized the importance of the captain’s role, stating that having a captain on the bench effectively hands leadership to an assistant.
Oliseh also highlighted the critical role of the defensive midfield position, which he once occupied.
He praised Wilfred Ndidi’s qualities but stressed the need for discipline and clear tactical instructions in that role, calling it “one of the most important roles in football” as it acts as the “umbrella of the defenders.”
With Nigeria preparing for crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Rwanda and South Africa, Oliseh’s comments come at a pivotal moment.
The Super Eagles currently sit fourth in Group C and must win all remaining matches to qualify for the World Cup for the first time since 2018.
Meanwhile, pressure mounts on coach Éric Chelle and the Nigeria Football Federation to deliver results and restore Nigeria’s place on the global stage.
