Former Nigerian international and football analyst Victor Ezeji has voiced concerns over Kelechi Nwakali’s stalled career, attributing it largely to issues of discipline and professionalism.
Ezeji, who weighed in on Nwakali’s stuttering career in an interview with Brila FM, noted that Nwakali, once hailed as one of Nigeria’s brightest midfield prospects after captaining the Golden Eaglets to FIFA U-17 World Cup glory in 2015, has struggled to fulfil his potential.
Despite his early promise and stints at various clubs in Europe, the midfielder’s career has been inconsistent, marked by frequent transfers and limited impact at the club level.
Nwakali has not been able to fulfil his dream of playing elite football, despite being one of the Golden Eaglets’ bright spots at the 2015 FIFA U-17 World Cup.
According to Ezeji, Nwakali’s attitude continues to be the greatest issue in his career, as he believes the player is easily overwhelmed by his success.
“This is the second time I remember he has had this particular incident. It all boils down to discipline. We are easily carried away with fame. Till date, I’m yet to see anyone that can play as a number 10 like Nwakali, but his attitude is the biggest problem.
“During their U-17 days, he was the star boy, but after that tournament, we don’t know what happened to him—maybe it’s fame or ‘village people,’ only God knows. I always tell these boys that fame is good, but learn to manage it. You will become a superstar, but how you live your life determines everything. That is very important. You have to discipline yourself.
“How will you come to Nigeria for holiday and not think of going back? Overstaying isn’t the problem, but you must communicate with your team. Say, ‘I have one or two challenges, please give me about two to five days.’ The club will usually tell you, ‘Do whatever you want to do and come back.’
“When I was in Tunisia, it happened sometimes. I asked for permission, and they told me to take one more week and return immediately, but our own—when they come back, they become kings here because all their friends are around them. They will play till they forget they are meant to go back.”
