Former Super Eagles midfielder Ogenyi Onazi has stirred fresh debate about Nigeria’s football history after openly criticising ex-national team coach Samson Siasia, describing him as a “weird” and “strange” manager.

Onazi made the remarks during a recent episode of the Abu Azeez Podcast, where he reflected on his international career and coaching experiences with the Super Eagles.

According to the former Lazio star, he enjoyed a largely smooth and successful run with the national team, starting in almost every match he was selected for—except during Siasia’s brief spell in charge.

“I don’t think I had any challenges in the Super Eagles. It has always been very good for me,” Onazi said.
“I think in all the games I played for the Super Eagles, 98% I was starting. It was only when Siasia came into the national team that I had some changes.”

Onazi recalled that Siasia benched him during the two matches he managed, both of which ended in defeat.
“The two games he managed for the Super Eagles, we lost. I think it was against Egypt; they sacked him. He was strange,” he added.

A Short, Controversial Tenure

Samson Siasia’s time with the Super Eagles during that period was brief and turbulent, marked by poor results and swift dismissal. Onazi’s comments now offer a player’s perspective on what many fans remember as a confusing and unsettled era for the national team.

Opinion: Truth, Timing, and Tactical Differences

Onazi’s blunt assessment may sound harsh, but it also highlights a common reality in football: players and coaches don’t always align. Tactical preferences, personal trust, and game philosophy often shape selections—and when results don’t follow, disagreements become louder.

While Siasia has his own legacy in Nigerian football, especially at youth level, his senior national team stints have always divided opinion. Onazi’s experience suggests that uncertainty in leadership can quickly reflect on player morale and team performance.

That said, football history is rarely black and white. What one player views as “strange” may simply be a coach attempting a different approach—right or wrong.

Final Whistle

Onazi’s revelation adds another layer to conversations about coaching stability and decision-making in Nigerian football. More importantly, it reminds us that success in the Super Eagles has often depended not just on talent, but on clarity, trust, and strong man-management.

As fans revisit these moments, one thing remains clear: when players speak years later, they often say what match results once hinted at—but couldn’t fully explain.