Nigeria legend Jay-Jay Okocha has weighed in on the coaching dynamics of the Super Eagles, expressing his support for Pitso Mosimane as a potential head coach.
Okocha's endorsement comes at a time when the current coach José Peseiro faces scrutiny following unexpected draws in World Cup qualifiers.
The seven-time Nigeria Footballer of the Year believes that Mosimane's track record and experience make him an ideal candidate to lead the team to greater heights.
Mosimane, recently released from his position at Al Wahda in the UAE, has been linked to the coaching role for the Nigerian national team.
Amidst rumours and speculations, Jay-Jay Okocha, speaking at an event celebrating 60 years of Bundesliga in Johannesburg, commended Mosimane's coaching prowess and stated that the accomplished South African coach would bring immense value to Nigerian football.
“Of course, I think Pitso is without any doubt one of the best African coaches. His track record is there for everyone to be seen,” he stated.
“If we [Nigeria] can get a coach like that, he’d add great value to our football, a coach that has a lot of experience at home in Africa.
“I don’t know how true that is [the rumours], but of course a coach like that is most welcome.”
Jay-Jay Okocha backs Mosimane as ideal coach
Expressing his thoughts on the current state of the Super Eagles under Peseiro, Jay-Jay Okocha acknowledged that the team may have lost some of the fear and respect it commanded during his era.
“I don’t think we’re where we supposed to be,” he explained.
“We’ve always believed that we’re one of the best in Africa, but of course recently we’ve not had the results to match that status.
“We might have lost a bit of that respect and fear that we’ve had during our era, but this is what we’re trying to bring back.”
Despite having talented players like Victor Osimhen, Wilfred Ndidi, Alex Iwobi, and Kelechi Iheanacho, Jay-Jay Okocha stressed the importance of instilling a sense of teamwork over individual brilliance.
The former football maestro emphasized the need for the coaching staff to guide the team towards playing cohesively.
The Bundesliga legend believes that Nigeria, historically considered one of the best teams in Africa, can regain its formidable status with strategic coaching that fosters unity among the players.
“We’ve got very good young players now, but it’s all about getting them to play as a team and not as individual superstars,” he concluded.
“This is where the coaches will have to come in place. But without any doubt I think we have a good team.”
As Jay-Jay Okocha lends his support to the potential appointment of Mosimane, the focus remains on steering the Super Eagles towards success in upcoming competitions, including the Africa Cup of Nations.
The Super Eagles former player's insights reflect a collective aspiration to see Nigeria's football legacy restored, bridging the gap between past glory and future triumphs.
This article was most recently revised and updated 9 months ago
