Former Paris Saint-Germain and Strasbourg defender Godwin Okpara in an exclusive interview with Footy-Africa, expressed belief that the transfer decisions made by certain Nigerian players during the recently closed winter transfer window will have a significant impact on both the national team and on their individual careers.
Several Super Eagles players changed clubs over the past month, seeking fresh challenges and regular playing minutes. The standout move was Ademola Lookman who completed a high-profile move from Atalanta to Atletico Madrid in a deal worth up to €40 million.
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Elsewhere, Frank Onyeka moved from Brentford to Coventry City in the English Championships after struggling for playing time, Joe Aribo joined Leicester City after falling out of favour at Southampton and Terem Moffi completed a loan move to FC Porto.
Commenting on the transfers, Okpara noted that the moves are necessary for the development of the players, which will also be beneficial for the national team.
“It is a good thing for them and for our national team too. I mean, you know, when you, when you’re in a team and you, you’re not, you’re not having your playing time, which you needed. it brings down players. A player without playing time, you know. The form goes down”, the former Nigerian defender exclusively told Footy-Africa.
“So this is an opportunity for them to step up their games and to be in good shape and to be ready for the national team too. And it’s a good thing for the national team.”
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“So, I would say kudos to them and hopefully they will, give their best and try to show people that my former team that it was a mistake from, from the, you know, their former team not letting them to, not giving them their playing time. So it all depends on how determined they are. So everything lies on them”, Okpara concluded.
Nigeria finished third at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations and will be aiming to go even further at the next edition.
Before that, the Super Eagles must first navigate the qualification phase which begins later this year. The players will be hoping to stay fit and in top form by getting regular minutes at their respective clubs.
