Nigeria Players Abroad
Akwuegbu tasks Nigerians to hire smarter agents, blasts Italian clubs over transfer blockades
By Dayo Awoniyi
Former Nigeria striker Benedict Akwuegbu has urged Nigerian footballers to surround themselves with competent agents capable of navigating the complexities of modern transfer negotiations, while accusing Italian clubs of deliberately blocking high-profile moves involving Nigerian talents.
Akwuegbu, who represented Nigeria at the 2000 Africa Cup of Nations and the 2002 FIFA World Cup, voiced his concerns in reaction to recent controversies surrounding the futures of Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman, and Victor Boniface.
“First and foremost, every player wants to play in the best leagues in the world. But it’s unfair how some Nigerian players have been treated by Italian clubs,” Akwuegbu told reporters.
The former striker pointed to Napoli’s hard stance in Osimhen’s case as an example of obstruction.
“Osimhen deserves to play for the biggest clubs, but Napoli placed an unrealistic price tag on him deliberately, making a move difficult,” he said.
Turning to Ademola Lookman, Akwuegbu emphasized the need to strike a balance between contractual obligations and player ambitions.
“Lookman wants to move, and while he is under contract, he should also have the right to play where he is wanted,” he added.
Italian football has proven particularly frustrating for Nigerian stars in recent months. Osimhen’s reported move to Galatasaray collapsed due to Napoli’s demands, Lookman’s desired switch to Inter Milan stalled, while Boniface’s anticipated transfer from Bayer Leverkusen to AC Milan was derailed by a medical setback.
Akwuegbu insisted these developments highlight the need for stronger representation.
“With skilled agents guiding them, our players will be better positioned to navigate complex negotiations and secure moves that align with their career goals and aspirations,” he concluded.
