Super Eagles captain William Troost-Ekong has weighed in on the ongoing debate about whether Nigeria's national football team should be led by a foreign or local coach.
Ekong who has been a fixture in the national setup for nearly a decade, offered his perspective during a pre-match press conference ahead of Nigeria’s Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 qualifier against Benin Republic.
Having played under both foreign and Nigerian coaches during his time with the Super Eagles, Troost-Ekong is well-versed in the varying coaching styles. Yet, when asked about his preference, the former Watford defender leaned towards supporting local coaches.
“I don’t think we look at where the coach is from,” Troost-Ekong said. “But I’ve always said it: having a coach from Nigeria is an advantage. Someone who has been in our shoes and walked the path we’re in, and that adds experience to us.”
Super Eagles coach: Why Troost-Ekong favors the indigenous
The 31-year-old added that while the coach plays a crucial role, the responsibility ultimately lies with the players when they step onto the pitch. “Eventually, the responsibility lies on us, because the coach can prepare us, but when the game starts, there are no guarantees.
“We can only guarantee a performance that we’ll be proud of, and that Nigerians deserve.”
Historically, Nigeria has appointed 22 foreign managers, with notable names like Otto Glória, Bonfrere Jo, and Clemens Westerhof achieving success with the national team.
To date, Stephen Keshi is the only local coach to lead the Super Eagles to an AFCON title (in 2013).
