Former Super Eagles coach Augustine Eguavoen has sent a congratulatory message to Nigeria-eligible striker Samu Omorodion following Spain’s victory in the men’s football competition at the 2024 Paris Olympics. Omorodion, who was part of Spain’s squad, started one game and scored, helping his team win the gold medal.
Eguavoen, who is also the technical director at the Nigeria Football Federation, celebrated Omorodion’s success on social media. “Congratulations to Samuel Omorodion on winning Olympic gold at the Paris 2024 Olympics in the Gold Medal Final,” Eguavoen wrote. “The entire Nigerian football community celebrates you. Massive achievement!”
While Eguavoen’s message may seem like a genuine congratulatory note, it could also be interpreted as a subtle attempt to woo Omorodion to play for Nigeria. Born to Nigerian parents in Spain, Omorodion is eligible to play for both countries, and he has chosen to represent Spain at the youth level.
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However, FIFA rules allow players to switch national teams if they have not yet played for the senior team, leaving the door open for Omorodion to potentially play for Nigeria in the future. Eguavoen’s message may be a way of keeping the lines of communication open and letting Omorodion know that Nigeria is interested in his services.
Omorodion’s international career is not the only aspect of his football life that is currently uncertain. He was close to joining Chelsea, but the deal broke down on Sunday night, leaving his future at Atletico Madrid or potentially on loan elsewhere.
Despite the uncertainty surrounding his club and international career, Omorodion can bask in the glory of his Olympic gold medal, a testament to his talent and hard work. Whether he chooses to represent Spain or Nigeria in the future, his achievement is a source of pride for both countries.
