In a recent interview, Aliyu Zubair, the head coach of El Kanemi Warriors, articulated his coaching philosophy, emphasizing a focus on developing a solid team structure rather than concentrating solely on individual player development. This perspective comes on the back of El Kanemi’s impressive performance in the ongoing NPFL 2024/25 season, where they have remained unbeaten after ten matches. Zubair, who also recently guided Nigeria’s U-20 team, the Flying Eagles, to victory in the 2024 WAFU Zone B U-20 Championship, articulated that a cohesive team framework is integral to sustaining performance. He noted that his team’s success stems from treating every player, whether a starter or a bench member, with the same level of coaching and tactical preparation, a strategy he believes is crucial for their continued success.
Zubair reiterated his commitment to building a robust team rather than merely focusing on individual talents. He declared, “We don’t build players; we build structure,” underscoring the philosophy that a well-structured team generates collective strength. Reinforcing this idea, he explained that every player in the squad is subject to the same training intensity, ensuring that all team members are equipped with the necessary skills and tactical knowledge to perform effectively when called upon. This strategy not only keeps the team competitive but also creates a confident environment where players understand their roles and responsibilities within the squad.
Highlighting the importance of youth development, Zubair discussed the potential that lies in players aged 15 to 22. He stressed that young talent is foundational to both the future of El Kanemi Warriors and the broader football league. He cited Kwara United as a model for how investing in young players can yield success, urging fans to exercise patience as these emerging talents develop into significant contributors for the club. Zubair’s strategic emphasis on nurturing the next generation is indicative of a long-term vision that prioritizes sustainable growth over immediate rewards.
As the season progresses, Zubair’s philosophies appear to be yielding positive results. El Kanemi Warriors recently secured a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Katsina United in Maiduguri, which propelled the team from fifth to fourth in the NPFL standings with 16 points. This performance illustrates the effectiveness of Zubair’s strategy, especially considering that the team has achieved this stature even with his temporary absence due to his commitments with the Flying Eagles. His dedication to crafting a disciplined and cohesive unit continues to resonate, suggesting that the team is on a promising trajectory for the remainder of the season.
Zubair extended his gratitude to his mentors, attributing his coaching success to the invaluable lessons he has learned from figures like Kadir Ikhana, Abdul Maikaba, John Obuh, and Tunde Sanni. Their influence has been instrumental in shaping his coaching philosophy, echoing the belief that strong mentorship can significantly impact one’s career in sports. He emphasized that the development of a coach is an ongoing journey, where shared experiences and guidance from seasoned individuals enrich professional growth and enhance coaching strategies.
As El Kanemi Warrior’s quest to maintain their unbeaten run in the league continues, Zubair remains resolute in his commitment to building a tactical and disciplined team framework. With the strong support of his coaching philosophy, mentorship, and a focus on youth, the future appears bright for not only the Warriors but also the broader Nigerian football landscape. Zubair’s insights into the importance of structure over individual talent resonate as a critical lesson for clubs aiming for sustained success in an ever-evolving competitive environment.
