Football
Finidi George’s Resignation Will Limit Home-Based Players Making the Super Eagles, Says Sikiru Alimi
Sikiru Alimi, the second-highest goal scorer in the NPFL last season, reflects on his remarkable performance, readiness for new challenges with Remo Stars, and the impact of Finidi George’s resignation on NPFL players making the Super Eagles.
Alimi reflects on his impressive last season, readiness for new challenges with Remo Stars, and the impact of Finidi’s resignation on NPFL players making the Senior National Team.
Sikiru Alimi, the second-highest goal scorer in the Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) last season, recently spoke in an exclusive interview with Sports Boom.
Reflecting on his impressive last season, Alimi expressed his dedication to personal improvement and his readiness for new challenges with Remo Stars.
He also discussed the ongoing debate between home-based and foreign-based players, Nigeria's potential in international tournaments, and the impact of Finidi's resignation on NPFL players making the Senior National Team.
An Impressive Season of Hard Work and Dedication
Sikiru Alimi reflects on his remarkable performance last season with pride. "It was really an impressive season for me personally, which took lots of hard work and dedication," he shares. His outstanding efforts on the field earned him recognition and set high expectations for the coming season.
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The Home vs. Foreign-Based Players Debate
On the ongoing debate between home-based and foreign-based players, Alimi offers a balanced perspective, as someone who has been on both sides of the divide, in an illustrious career.
"Honestly, it’s not the right thing to do making comparisons," he says.
"There would definitely be lots of qualities from the foreign pros because of the quality of infrastructures, equipment, and technical teachings they are exposed to, compared to the home-based."
He acknowledges the advantages foreign-based players have but stresses the unique strengths of home-based talents as well.
Aiming for Greater Things Ahead
Looking forward to the new season, Alimi expresses his ambition and determination.
"Honestly, I’m really hoping for greater things ahead. I’m trying to get enough rest needed to resume back healthy and energized for the tasks ahead,” he told SportsBoom.com.
Alimi also emphasises the importance of consistent personal training to maintain peak performance.
"Of course, I have personal sessions to aid my performance every season, so the forthcoming season wouldn’t be an exception," he explains.
With greater zeal, dedication, and patriotism, we should always be the Giant of Africa… Eventually, we will scale through our various groups
Sikiru Alimi
Nigeria's Potential on the International Stage
Discussing Nigeria's current generation of players, and qualification through the just released draws for Afcon 2025, Alimi is optimistic.
"With the current generation of players Nigeria possesses, I think we shouldn’t be having issues qualifying for various tournaments," he asserts.
Facing AS FAR of Morocco: A Test of Grit
As Remo Stars gear up to face AS FAR of Morocco again in the CAF Champions League prelims, Alimi is confident but realistic.
"I think the lessons from previous CAF games are already enough to go all out this time around," he reflects.
"The biggest challenge would be going to Rabat to cause an upset, which is never impossible. We are generally anticipating both legs."
Faith in Remo Stars: Talent and Luck
Alimi expresses strong belief in his team's capabilities.
"Honestly, I’m 100% certain with the calibre and abilities of the players Remo Stars possess," he declares.
"All that is just needed is mother luck." His confidence in his teammates' skills and potential highlights the unity and strength within the team.
Thoughts on Finidi’s Resignation from The National Team
On the topic of Finidi's resignation, and what it bodes for NPFL players making the Senior National Team Squad, Alimi is candid yet hopeful.
"Honestly, it would affect call-ups for home-based players, unless the new coach proves otherwise," he admits.
"Most expatriate coaches hired for the Super Eagles don't follow the League, hence, don't even know the players, or the quality of players the league has."
Gbemidepo Popoola, is a freelance Sport Journalist with multiple years of experience in Writing, Reportage and Broadcasting. Gbemidepo's major concentration is telling the local Nigerian Sporting stories, in its own Unique way. This is because he believes, "no one, can tell our story better than ourselves".