An aide to former Super Eagles coach Gernot Rohr has shed light on why the team missed out on securing the services of top players like Bukayo Saka and others who opted to represent European nations, according to Sport Brief. In an interview with OwnGoalNigeria, the aide attributed the failure to the approach of former NFF president Amaju Pinnick, describing it as "autocratic" and counterproductive.
According to the aide, the NFF's approach under Pinnick's leadership was too forceful and public, putting undue pressure on the players and their families. This, he believes, led to the loss of key players like Saka, Oliseh, and Fikayo Tomori, who chose to represent England instead.
The aide cited the example of Tammy Abraham, whose negotiations with the NFF were made public, leading to intense media scrutiny and pressure from his family, friends, and agents. This, he believes, influenced Abraham's decision to reject Nigeria and play for England instead.
A more subtle and respectful approach, the aide argued, would have been more effective in convincing these players to represent Nigeria. He expressed regret over the missed opportunities, stating that the Super Eagles could have benefited greatly from the talents of Saka, Oliseh, Tomori, and others.