In an interview on Brila FM’s ‘No Holds Barred with Ifeanyi Udeze, former Super Eagles forward Victor Ezeji spoke about Kelechi Nwakali’s issues at Barnsley, pointing to indiscipline as the root of the player’s problems.
Nwakali’s troubles with his League One side began after his late return to preseason from Nigeria.
Barnsley manager, Conor Hourihane excluded the Nigerian midfielder from the team and put him up for sale.
“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 now, I have not seen 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 U-17, 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.”
“Nwakali needs someone to talk to him. I have a friend who told me this boy is a great player, but he won’t go anywhere. I asked him why, and he said, ‘His attitude.’ That time he was in London, he met him there. He said they spoke at length, and he was arrogant.
“I hope he listens, because with players—when you advise them—they will avoid you. You become their enemy. They will start dodging you because you want to live that life.”
“If he (Nwakali) listens, he has a chance to change his career. If not, it will be bad.”
Ezeji spent 20 years in the NPFL, playing for Sharks, Sunshine Stars, Heartland FC, and Enyimba.
He won two CAF Champions League titles with Enyimba and had a spell with Club Africain.
The 44-year-old made eight appearances for the Super Eagles.
