Former Super Eagles hero Sunday Mba has urged the national team selectors to use the upcoming Unity Cup as a platform to showcase talent from the domestic league, while warning against favouritism in player selection.
With the competition seen as an opportunity to test new players, Mba believes it is the perfect moment to give home-based stars a chance to prove themselves on the international stage.
“This is their opportunity,” he said, emphasizing the importance of inclusivity.
However, the former international raised concerns about selection patterns, cautioning against building a squad dominated by players from a single club — an issue he says affected past teams, including the CHAN squad.
“We must avoid that mistake,” he stressed.
According to Mba, talent is spread across multiple clubs in the Nigerian league, and a balanced selection process is essential to ensure fairness and competitiveness.
“There are good players everywhere,” he implied.
For him, the Unity Cup should not just be about participation, but about discovering and nurturing players who can contribute to the long-term future of the Super Eagles.
“This is about development,” he noted.
Mba also highlighted the need for transparency and merit in selection, arguing that giving opportunities to deserving players will boost morale and strengthen the domestic league.
“It encourages everyone,” he added.
His comments reflect a broader call for greater integration of local talents into the national team — an issue that has been widely debated in Nigerian football.
As the Unity Cup approaches, attention will be on how the squad is selected and whether new faces will be given meaningful opportunities.
For Mba, the message is clear.
Talent exists.
It just needs a chance.
