The Golden Eaglets’ head coach, Manu Garba, a celebrated figure in Nigerian football, has taken his scouting mission to Anambra State in a bid to unearth young football talents for the national U-17 team. Accompanied by the team’s general coordinator, Bello Garba Gusau, the scouting program kicked off with great enthusiasm and excitement at Awka, the capital city of Anambra.
The initiative, facilitated by the industrious Chairman of the Anambra State Football Association, General Chikelue Iloenyosi, saw over 1,000 players from across the state showcase their skills on the first day of the screening exercise. The event witnessed a hive of football action, with Anambra’s young talents putting up their best performances to impress the visiting officials.
Coach Manu Garba, who is no stranger to success, led Nigeria’s Golden Eaglets to victory in the 2013 FIFA U-17 World Cup in South Korea. His current mission in Anambra is part of efforts to rebuild the Golden Eaglets and identify promising players who can restore the team’s dominance on the international stage.
The event also highlighted the Golden Eaglets’ recent struggles, including their failure to qualify for the upcoming 2025 FIFA U-17 World Cup due to late preparations. However, the presence of Coach Manu Garba and the scouting team in Anambra has reignited hopes for the future, as the state is known for producing exceptional football talents who have made their mark nationally and internationally.
Anambra State FA Chairman General Chikelue Iloenyosi expressed his delight at hosting the Golden Eaglets’ team, commending their commitment to discovering and nurturing young talents. Day one of the exercise was described as a resounding success, with numerous players catching the attention of the scouts.
Barrister Lyke Igbokwe, a prominent figure in Nigerian football, praised the efforts of Coach Manu Garba and the scouting team for their dedication to the development of grassroots football.
The Golden Eaglets’ talent hunt in Anambra is expected to continue, with hopes high that this initiative will pave the way for a new generation of football stars to represent Nigeria on the global stage.
