Long time Nigerian coach Emmanuel Ezeji has expressed concern over the stalled career of Super Eagles midfield prodigy Kelechi Nwakali, pointing to recurring disciplinary issues as the key barrier to his progression.
Ezeji referenced multiple episodes, from Nwakali being demoted at GD Chaves for using his phone during a game, to returning late from a holiday, getting sent off for violence in a U21 tie, and ultimately being sacked by Barnsley for returning late to training all warning signs of a pattern that endangers his future.
Once a Golden Ball winner at the U17 World Cup and tipped for stardom after signing with Arsenal, Nwakali’s talent remains unquestioned. But as Ezeji warns, without maturity and professionalism, his once-promising journey could fade into what-ifs.
Editorial
We see Kelechi Nwakali’s situation as an urgent red flag. Talent alone isn’t enough professionalism is the foundation upon which greatness is built. Nwakali’s early career was filled with promise: he captained Nigeria to U17 World Cup glory, impressed at Arsenal’s academy, and sparked dreams of international stardom. Yet, the consistent narrative since has been disappointment disciplinary lapses taking precedence over his on-field gifts.
It’s one thing for a young talent to stumble; it’s quite another to repeatedly push away those willing to invest. Using a phone on the bench, late returns to clubs, on-field aggression each incident chips away not just from his credibility, but also from his own potential. His dismissal from Barnsley, after yet another return late from holiday, felt like a final warning; one more misstep could close every remaining door.
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Our hope and we must believe it is still possible—is for a turnaround. If Nwakali chooses to discipline his habits and dedicate himself fully, he might rebuild. What he needs now is not just a club, but a mentor who demands professionalism as much as performance. Time is not infinite, though. Ezeji’s words carry weight: without change, we risk watching an extraordinary talent become a cautionary tale.
Did You Know?
- Golden Ball Winner: Nwakali was awarded the Golden Ball at the 2015 FIFA U-17 World Cup after leading Nigeria to victory.
- Youth Club Journey After his U-17 success, he signed with Arsenal in 2016 but never made a senior appearance, instead featuring on loan at clubs like MVV Maastricht, VVV-Venlo, and Porto B.
- Chaves Incident: His disciplinary issues resurfaced at GD Chaves when he was disciplined for checking his phone on the bench during a match, drawing strong criticism from the club.
- Barnsley Fallout: At Barnsley, he was sacked after repeatedly showing up late for training following holidays, leading the club to move on decisively.
- On-field Conduct: During a U21 match, Nwakali was sent off for punching an opponent — a flashpoint in a career increasingly fraught with controversy.
