Former Super Eagles midfielder John Obi Mikel has expressed desire to take on a role at the Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) after the country’s World Cup disappointment, SportPremi reports.
The NFF has constantly come under criticism for its poor organization and management of the national team in recent years.
Ahead of the CAF playoffs for the FIFA World Cup earlier this month, the Super Eagles squad boycotted training over unpaid wages and bonuses dating back to 2019.
Nigeria subsequently missed out on the World Cup after losing to the Democratic Republic of Congo on penalty shootout in the playoff final after a 1-1 draw after extra-time.
The three-time African champions had beaten Gabon 4-1 in the first round of the playoffs, which they qualified for via a second placed finish at the end of the group qualifiers.
Mikel eyes changes in NFFÂ
Nigerian football has been in decline over a while, with the senior team missing out on two consecutive World Cup tournaments for the first time since a first appearance in 1994.
The country has also endured disappointments in other areas, with both the Golden Eaglets and the Olympic team missing out on qualifications to their respective tournaments.
Former captain Mikel who recently called for the NFF administration to resign from their roles after the World Cup disappointment, has shown desire to lead a new reform.
“One thing I have always done since my early days is fought for the country. I don’t know how many players have done that like I have, through the U17, U20, the senior national team”, the former Chelsea midfielder revealed.
“Years of sacrifice. I have never for once said no to my country. When I know I can give my opinion and help, I will always be ready. But again, I won’t have corruption tied to me. I am never going to do that if I am going to say yes.
“If you want us going forward, you must make sure things are done properly”, Mikel continued.
“Get the right people, people that have the same direction and thought, so when the players come back home to play, there is a good environment for them to play and perform.”
What next for Nigeria?
The Super Eagles will return to action next month in the 2025 African Cup of Nations in Morocco.
Nigeria will contest with Tunisia, Tanzania and Uganda in group C as they hope to record a better finish than their second position at the 2024 tournament.
The three-time African champions missed out on the chance to win a first tournament since 2013 after losing 2-1 to Ivory Coast in the final.
