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Plateau United Manager, Mbwas Mangut has voiced his concern over Nigeria’s growing reliance on foreign-based players as the Super Eagles get set for the next round of Africa Cup of Nations Qualifiers.

Mangut emphasized that while the foreign-based players are talented and dedicated, the exclusion of home-based players from the national team could be detrimental to Nigeria’s success.

“I must tell you, look at history. There is no trophy being won by Nigeria without having at least 20% of the home base, check record,” Mangut stated. “And there is no coach that has achieved any trophy in the men’s senior national team without using the local boys.”

The Plateau United coach further argued that home-based players, being more familiar with the challenges and emotions of representing Nigeria, often bring a unique drive that foreign-based players might lack.

“They are more hungry and they are more frequent. Most of these guys who grew up there don’t even know what a Nigerian feels when we lose a match. They have quality, they are good players. But you know here, This is our fatherland and the players here are not encouraged. I don’t think we are making any sense.”

Mangut concluded, calling for a more inclusive approach that values the contributions of local talent in the national team’s efforts.