Femi Opabunmi, a former U-17 star, has voiced his support for FIFA’s proposal to hold the U-17 World Cup annually, citing its potential to bolster grassroots football and unearth new talents.
Opabunmi emphasized the importance of prioritizing grassroots development to discover and nurture emerging talents.
“It’s a very good idea because every year, you know, they will search for a lot of talent,” Opabunmi remarked.
“So everywhere, lots of young talent will be starting from U17. They will have the opportunity to showcase their talent, so it will develop a lot of football in Nigeria.”
Opabunmi highlighted the significance of the U-17 category in grassroots football development, emphasizing that it provides a platform for young talents to shine.
“It will help us in grassroots football in Nigeria. You know U17 will start from grassroots because we understand they are young talents, so it’s good,” he explained.
Furthermore, Opabunmi underscored the annual event’s potential to motivate aspiring footballers.
“There is a big opportunity for them; anyone that is doing good, if he misses this year, will have the hope that he will work hard again.
Next year he’ll be here,” he concluded, emphasizing the continuous pathway for talented youngsters to showcase their skills on the global stage.
