Emmanuel Amuneke reveals how to find the next generation of superstars

By Saheed Afolabi

Former Nigeria international, Emmanuel Amuneke has revealed how to find the next generation of superstars for the country.

The former 2017 U17 World Cup winner advised the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) on the need to dissolve more powers to the State Football Associations to develop from the grassroots where talents progress can be monitored.

“Yes, we have Osimhen today but we should be thinking in the next 10 years who are those that will replace the present generation and we need holistic approach,” Amunike told the Press.

“When you look at the diversity of Nigeria and the factors in terms of religion, tribe and everything, we have to create an inclusive programme which is about assuming more responsibilities to the state FAs where they can have more authority and power to develop their state football.

“Then you can come up with a plan to create regional teams whereby people or scouts from the NFF can monitor the talents whenever any competition is going on.”

The former Tazania national team coach admitted football have evolved and believes administrators with the progressive vision is what Nigeria needs to get it right.

“Football has evolved and alot has changed, we need people with vision that understand we have to continue to develop and see how we can bring in new generation,” he continued.

“We should look at enhancing the state FAs for more talents discovery, the reason for emphasis on state FAs is because we have many players in the regional level that do not have the privilege of going to Abuja.

“We need to create an environment where the states can identify and develop their own players, and the coaches in each state will also be relevant because not everybody can come to Abuja.”