Nigeria’s failure to qualify for back-to-back FIFA World Cups has sparked fresh calls for reform, with former Super Eagles midfielder Etim Esin urging a major overhaul of the country’s football system.
The Super Eagles, who first appeared at the World Cup in 1994, have now missed two straight tournaments. After falling short in the race to Qatar 2022, Nigeria again suffered heartbreak in the qualifiers for the 2026 finals, losing on penalties in the African play-off.
Esin did not hide his disappointment, blaming poor planning and a lack of accountability within the football leadership. He stressed that the country needs a clear long-term strategy if it hopes to return to the global stage.
While criticising the current structure, Esin pointed to a solution he believes could change the direction of Nigerian football. He strongly backed Michael Emenalo as the right man to help rebuild the system.
Emenalo is widely respected in football circles for his work behind the scenes at top European clubs. During his time at Chelsea FC, he rose through the ranks to become technical director, playing a key role in recruitment, youth development, and overall club structure.
He was instrumental in bringing in players who later became global stars, while also strengthening the club’s academy and loan system. His influence helped maintain Chelsea’s competitiveness both domestically and in Europe.
After leaving Chelsea, Emenalo continued his administrative career at AS Monaco, further building his reputation as one of the most experienced football executives in the game.
Esin believes that bringing someone of Emenalo’s calibre into Nigeria’s football leadership could provide the structure and vision that has been missing in recent years.
Alongside Emenalo, he also highlighted the importance of experience on the players’ side, backing former captain John Obi Mikel to play a role in shaping the future.
Mikel has been vocal about the current state of Nigerian football, describing the failure to reach the World Cup as a major setback for a country with such talent. He warned that Nigeria risks falling behind other African nations that are making steady progress.
With the next World Cup cycle already approaching, pressure is growing on football authorities to act quickly. For Esin, the message is clear — only strong leadership and proper planning can return the Super Eagles to where they belong on the world stage.
