We Are The Problem’: Oliseh Criticises Former Players Amid Rufai Tribute

'We Are The Problem’: Oliseh Criticises Former Players Amid Rufai Tribute

By Admin 

Former Super Eagles captain Sunday Oliseh has added his voice to the ongoing debate surrounding the treatment of Nigeria’s retired footballers, asserting that the players themselves bear much of the responsibility for their current plight.

The discussion resurfaced during the funeral of legendary Nigerian goalkeeper Peter Rufai, who passed away on July 3, 2025, following a prolonged illness. Rufai was laid to rest in Lagos on August 22, during which former defender Taribo West publicly criticised the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) and the Federal Government for their perceived neglect of the late football icon.

West’s remarks sparked mixed reactions across the country, with some sympathising with the call for institutional support, while others pointed to a lack of foresight and unity among former players as a core issue.

Speaking on the Global Football Insights podcast, Oliseh echoed the latter sentiment, stating that many of the challenges facing retired footballers stem from within their own ranks.

 “One of the major problems we have are ourselves, ex-professional soccer players. We are one of the major problems,” Oliseh remarked.

The former Juventus midfielder went on to recount personal experiences of internal betrayal during his tenure as Super Eagles captain, particularly ahead of the 2002 FIFA World Cup.

 “I suffered betrayal and backstabbing in 2002 when I was captain. I didn’t go to the World Cup, not because of something I did, but because I was fighting for other people to get their dues. That ganging up cost me my place,” he revealed.

Oliseh underscored the lack of cohesion among former internationals, arguing that their failure to present a united front has eroded their influence with both the public and national football authorities.

His comments have reignited broader discussions around the welfare of Nigeria’s sporting heroes and the role of both institutions and individuals in ensuring their dignity after retirement.