Former Manchester United and Super Eagles striker Odion Ighalo has publicly endorsed Napoli star Victor Osimhen to become the next captain of the Nigerian national team. This recommendation comes in the wake of defender William Troost-Ekong's sudden retirement from international football.
Ighalo's Captaincy Criteria: Influence Over Seniority
Ighalo, who won the Golden Boot at the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations, made his views known during an Instagram conversation with former Super Eagles media officer Colin Udoh. He argued that while players like Wilfred Ndidi, Moses Simon, and Alex Iwobi have more seniority in terms of years with the team, the captain's armband should go to the most influential figure on the pitch.
"I'll give you my reason why. Not because he's the oldest player in the team, but because now Osimhen is doing well, he is in his time. And he has the balls to demand what they want," Ighalo stated.
He emphasized that leadership is defined by character and the ability to motivate, not just by tenure. Ighalo praised Osimhen for being vocal and willing to hold teammates accountable, qualities he deemed essential for the role.
Why Osimhen Over Ndidi?
In a clear snub to other contenders, Ighalo explained his preference for Osimhen over the more experienced Wilfred Ndidi. He described Ndidi as a calm and quiet individual, while highlighting Osimhen's outspoken nature as a key asset.
"Ndidi is not a talking type. Indeed he's a very calm guy. But Osimhen is outspoken. He's going to speak on behalf of the team. He's gonna ginger the boys. You see in the game sometimes he will say, 'hey, hey, come on', sometimes you see him talking loud," Ighalo elaborated.
According to the former Watford striker, a captain must inspire and demand high standards, especially during difficult moments both on and off the field.
The Unresolved Captaincy Debate Ahead of AFCON 2025
The Super Eagles are currently without a confirmed captain as they prepare for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco. Head coach Eric Chelle has not yet made an official announcement regarding who will succeed Troost-Ekong.
Ndidi has previously worn the armband as vice-captain and is a strong candidate. Moses Simon and Alex Iwobi, as some of the squad's longest-serving players, are also in contention. The team has begun preparations, recently playing a friendly match against Egypt in Cairo, which they lost 2-1.
In related news, former captain Ahmed Musa has also officially retired from international duty, closing a 15-year career that included a record 111 caps for Nigeria. This adds further significance to the decision on who will lead the new generation of Super Eagles.
