Former Super Eagles coach Finidi George has encouraged Nigerian players to always strive for the highest possible level in their club careers. His exclusive comments for Footy-Africa follow Bright Osayi-Samuel’s unexpected move from Turkish side Fenerbahçe to newly promoted English Championship team Birmingham City.
The transfer surprised many, especially with strong reports linking the 27-year-old right-back to Premier League side Crystal Palace. Osayi-Samuel had been a consistent performer for Fenerbahçe and was even spotted at Selhurst Park during a match, fueling speculation of a return to five years after leaving Queens Park Rangers.
However, after failing to reach an agreement on a contract extension with Jose Mourinho’s Fenerbahçe, the defender opted for a return to England, signing a three-year deal with Birmingham City.
Finidi, who worked closely with Osayi-Samuel during his brief spell as Super Eagles coach, expressed surprise over the move and felt the player could have aimed for a more prominent club.
“I really do not know his motive for not renewing with Fenerbahçe and going back to England,” Finidi said. “For me, I think players should be aiming high while they still have the energy and age on their side to play at the highest level. That is what I was expecting from Bright (Osayi-Samuel). He is a good player who I believe can play in the big leagues and with big clubs, with due respect to Birmingham City.”
When asked whether Osayi-Samuel’s move to a second-tier club might impact his place in the national team, Finidi dismissed the concern, pointing out that the defender is already a key part of the Super Eagles setup.
“No, I do not think it will affect him in any way in the Super Eagles because he is already a regular player in the team. He has demonstrated that he can play, and he fits in properly, giving his best anytime he is called upon,” the former Ajax winger added.
As Osayi-Samuel prepares for life in the Championship, Finidi’s message rings clear to Nigerian players, suggesting they should not just settle as they should always chase the highest possible standard.
