Former Super Eagles midfielder, Sunday Oliseh has defended Nigerian footballers who leave the country to play abroad.
The former Captain and Coach of the Super Eagles argued that players will always seek better opportunities to support their families and secure their future.
Oliseh stressed that football is a profession and urged stakeholders to improve the financial structure of the Nigerian league.
“Look, football is a business, it’s what he uses to pay his bills, feed his family plan his future,” Oliseh told Brila.net.
“Even if it’s 1,000 dollars, if you multiply it to Naira it’s a big money. When we were playing they was never one month that they owed us it might be small but we were paid on time.
“People built family with that money with consistent savings if you want players to stay in Nigeria ensure the league is conducive and okay.
“Don’t blame people to try to feed their family put them in your shoes. If you don’t feed your wife she will complain,” Oliseh said.
Also read: FIFA 2026 World Cup: NPFL Clubs will Profit from $355m Largesse Despite Super Eagles Heartbreak
Sunday Oliseh began his professional career with Julius Berger Lagos during the 1989–1990 season before moving to Belgium at the age of 16 after being scouted by RFC Liège in 1990.
The move marked the beginning of a successful 16-year career in European football.
He also captained Nigeria to a runners-up finish at the 2000 Africa Cup of Nations and earned 63 caps for the Super Eagles during his international career.
