Former Super Eagles midfielder, Austin Jay Jay Okocha is unhappy that Napoli striker, Victor Osimhen, turned down a highly lucrative offer to join the Saudi Pro League.
An ex-international and former Chelsea Technical Manager, Mike Emenalo who currently manages a club in the oil-rich country also advised the Nigerian rising star to move to Saudi but Osimhen chose to remain in Italy.
Okocha who was pained with the decision of Osimhen to turn down the offer said “It doesn’t make sense to me but it is his decision, but if I am given such an offer, I will go without hesitation,” he said.
Okocha emphasised that if he heard about the contract being offered to Osimhen, he would play in Saudi Arabia for two years.
“As an African, you can fill your cabinet with trophies, but if you can’t feed yourself, nobody will appreciate those laurels you have gathered.
“Unfortunately in Nigeria, you have to be your own government; to provide for everything that you need, or else, you will be a liability.
“Fenerbahçe FC gave me an irresistible offer, a tax-free contract, this is different and better than staying in big clubs in Germany. So, you expect me to play for Bayern Munich where the taxes are higher?
“I don’t think Cristiano Ronaldo and the rest are dumb for going to Saudi Arabia. The problem is not about us, but family demands, and for sure, you can’t give what you don’t have. For me, I will go grab it first.
“Some players can play in four world cups and still be broke, that’s their choice.
“Feeding your family is better than filling your cabinet with trophies. It is better if both are achieved; nevertheless, players must remember their roots.
“The main reason for being a footballer is to earn a living; football is one of the few professions that can make the rich and the poor be on the same level,” Okocha said.
He further explained that he was still relevant because of what he had. “If I am hungry, nobody will remember me.”
