Former Super Eagles midfielder Duke Udi has expressed concern over the steady decline in Nigeria’s football development, blaming part of the problem on the unwillingness of ex-internationals to take up coaching and mentorship roles.
Speaking with journalists, Udi noted that in many footballing nations, retired players actively contribute to the sport’s growth through coaching, talent development, and administration.
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However, he lamented that in Nigeria, many former stars choose to stay away from the game, leaving the system in the hands of individuals without proper football experience.
“It’s unfortunate that a lot of our ex-players are running away from coaching,” Udi said.
“In countries like Spain, Germany, and even South Africa, former players are driving football growth. They pass on their knowledge and experience to the next generation. We don’t have enough of that here.”
The former Sunshine Stars coach added that the absence of ex-professionals in the coaching setup has created a gap in technical understanding and player development within the Nigerian league.
“If we keep leaving football in the hands of people who never played it at a high level, our league will continue to struggle,” he warned. “We need former players to come back, get their badges, and take charge of grassroots and professional football.”
Udi also urged the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) to create better pathways for ex-internationals interested in coaching, including access to licensing, mentorship, and developmental opportunities.
“We have the brains and experience — we just need the structure,” he concluded.
