Seyi Awolowo, grandson of the late Chief Obafemi Awolowo and a former Big Brother Naija housemate, reflects on his sporting experiences and his unwavering passion for football, particularly Manchester United. While he dabbled in various sports during his formative years, including track and field, basketball, and football, he humbly admits his lack of prowess on the football pitch. Despite trying different positions, from striker to goalkeeper, he realized that football wasn’t his forte. He acknowledges that with dedicated coaching, he might have excelled in basketball, but the daunting tales of formidable opponents in school tournaments ultimately discouraged him from pursuing it further. His family, however, didn’t actively dissuade him from sports, viewing them primarily as a form of exercise rather than a career path. Nevertheless, a balance between academics and athletics was always emphasized. Looking back, Seyi expresses a tinge of regret, recognizing that with greater self-discipline and perseverance, he could have potentially pursued a sporting career. He envisions himself as a versatile athlete, proficient in a multitude of disciplines.
Among Nigerian football legends, Seyi holds Austin “Jay-Jay” Okocha in the highest regard, admiring his exceptional skill, captivating style of play, and instrumental role in Bolton’s escape from relegation. He laments the fact that Okocha never received the African Player of the Year award, attributing it to the political undercurrents often influencing such accolades. Nonetheless, Seyi believes Okocha’s inherent awareness of his greatness transcends any official recognition. His allegiance to Manchester United began at the tender age of eight, despite the club’s recent struggles testing his loyalty. He finds solace in their Europa League triumph but remains cautiously optimistic about their future prospects. He acknowledges the challenges faced by the club since Sir Alex Ferguson’s departure, a pivotal figure in United’s success. While he believes the team is undergoing a transitional phase, experimenting with different coaches and seeking the missing ingredient to reignite their former glory, he remains hopeful for a resurgence, drawing parallels with Liverpool’s revival after a period of decline.
When asked to construct a dream five-a-side team comprising Manchester United legends, Seyi opts for an attacking formation, showcasing his appreciation for flair and offensive prowess. He selects Ruud van Nistelrooy as the spearhead of his attack, supported by the creative brilliance of Cristiano Ronaldo and Ryan Giggs in midfield. The defensive duties are entrusted to the reliable Rio Ferdinand and the energetic Patrice Evra, while Edwin van der Sar guards the goal. This selection reflects Seyi’s admiration for players who consistently performed at the highest level for the club. He maintains a pragmatic outlook on Manchester United’s chances in the current Europa League, emphasizing the inherent unpredictability of football. He refrains from making bold pronouncements, acknowledging that any outcome is possible based on recent performances. This measured approach reflects his understanding of the fluctuating nature of the sport.
Seyi avidly follows the Nigerian national team, the Super Eagles, and expresses his unwavering belief in their potential. He recalls a time when the Super Eagles consistently triumphed over formidable opponents, lamenting the current state of affairs where players seem more focused on securing lucrative contracts abroad than representing their nation with pride. He advocates for the privatization of Nigerian football, believing that government involvement hinders the team’s progress. He criticizes the prevailing system where players prioritize personal gain over national glory, hindering the team’s ability to reach its full potential. He yearns for a return to the era when the Super Eagles were a force to be reckoned with on the international stage, capable of defeating powerhouses like Argentina and Brazil. To achieve this, he calls for a complete overhaul of the system, emphasizing the need to eliminate political interference in player selection and team management.
The interview with Seyi Awolowo provides a glimpse into his sporting preferences and his insightful perspectives on the state of football, both at the club and international levels. His reflections on his own sporting experiences, coupled with his analysis of Manchester United’s current trajectory and the challenges faced by the Super Eagles, offer a nuanced understanding of the complexities and intricacies of the beautiful game. His unwavering support for Manchester United, despite their recent struggles, and his passionate plea for a revitalized Super Eagles underscore his deep-seated love for football and his desire to see both his beloved club and national team return to their former glory. His emphasis on privatization and the removal of political influence in Nigerian football highlights his belief in the transformative power of meritocracy and the importance of prioritizing national pride over individual ambitions.
Seyi’s admiration for legendary players like Jay-Jay Okocha and his carefully curated dream five-a-side team further illuminate his appreciation for skill, flair, and consistent performance. His balanced perspective, acknowledging both the highs and lows of football, reflects his mature understanding of the sport’s unpredictable nature. His willingness to share his personal experiences and his considered opinions on the challenges facing Nigerian football contribute to a broader conversation about the future of the sport in the country. This interview offers a valuable insight into the mind of a passionate football fan and a concerned citizen who believes in the potential of Nigerian football to reclaim its place on the global stage. His views, while subjective, provide food for thought and contribute to the ongoing dialogue surrounding the development and improvement of the sport in Nigeria.
