Amunike opens up on biggest regret

Former Super Eagles forward and Golden Eaglets sweat merchant, Emmanuel Amu­nike has lamented that the biggest regret he had in the 14 years of his football career as a player was not playing alongside four time world best player, Lionel Messi at Bar­celona.

Speaking in an exclusive chat with The Sun Sports, the one time Zamalek of Egypt and Sporting Lisbon hit man, who played for Barcelona between 1996 and 2000 disclosed that though he played with some of the best players in the world, he was not fulfilled not playing with football genius like Messi and reigning world best player, Cristiano Ronaldo.

“I am proud to have played with some of the best players the world can boast of during our generation, among who are Ronaldo of Brazil, Zinedine Zidane, Rivaldo,Figo and Guardiola who is the present coach of Bayern Munich,’’ he re­called in nostalgia.

“On the other hand, we have new generation of players like Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ron­aldo who I would have also loved to play with. My only regret is not playing with these players, espe­cially Messi.

“I wish he was there during my time at Barcelona. It would have been a wonderful experience to play with such a multi talented player. But it is a pity that you cannot play with every player throughout your career. So, I have no choice but to admire and enjoy the beauty of their football artistry. When you watch them in action, they are simply amazing.’’

While reviewing the Golden Eaglets FIFA Under 17 World Cup triumph in Chile last month, the 1994 African footballer of the Year came away with the submis­sion that he was rather optimistic of better days ahead with the Ea­glets.

“I am delighted with the deci­sion by the Nigeria football au­thorities that I should continue from where I stopped with the team and if you ask me I will say it’s a welcome development con­sidering the fact that it’s good for continuity,’’ he reasoned.

“I will not rest on my oars, so I will keep on working hard to en­sure that more honours and glory are brought to this great nation. I am looking forward to winning many more trophies. I think, my best has yet to come.’’

He added that he was looking beyond coaching the Golden Ea­glets and predicted his dream was to handle the Super Eagles if the opportunity presents itself in the near future.

“Yes, I hope to get to the highest level. It’s the dream of every Ni­gerian coach to handle the senior national team and if it’s the will of God why not? I will be glad to serve with the highest degree of dedication. So far so good, Oliseh is currently doing a good job. We should give him a chance to prove himself. He needs 100 per cent support to succeed. It’s one step at a time. You don’t cross the bridge before getting to the river,’’ he concluded in a philosophical tone.