Super Eagles legend Austin Jay-Jay Okocha has advised South African footballers to develop the same hunger and ambition that has helped many Nigerian players succeed in leagues around the world.
READ ALSO: Ümit Özat Urges Federation to Use Victor Osimhen as Training Model for Young Forwards
The former Nigerian captain, who enjoyed a successful career in Europe including spells with Eintracht Frankfurt, Paris Saint-Germain F.C., and Bolton Wanderers F.C., stressed the importance of stepping out of one’s comfort zone to achieve global recognition.
“First of all, you must have the desire to become the best version of yourself,” Okocha said.
According to the Nigerian icon, many South African players remain too comfortable playing in their domestic league rather than seeking opportunities abroad where they can test themselves against stronger competition.
“For you to make a name for yourself globally, you must get out of your comfort zone, and this is the problem,” he explained.
“It is my opinion that South African players are too comfortable at home. That drive is not really there, but we Nigerians, we’re very ambitious people. We like to challenge ourselves.”
Okocha also highlighted the importance of adapting to new environments for players who move abroad, noting that success in foreign leagues requires more than just footballing ability.
“Of course, when you come to a country like Germany, you have to try to socialise and understand the culture of the people,” he said.
“You have to be willing to learn the language and just learn in general. It’s a lot easier if you have people who mentor you, but it’s also about how you present yourself.”
The former midfield maestro concluded by encouraging young players to remain open-minded and maintain the hunger needed to improve.
