)
In-form Super Eagles striker Brown Ideye is not interested in any invitation to CHAN as he is fully focused on Enyimba.
Super Eagles icon Brown Ideye has declined any invitation to participate in the upcoming African Nations Championship (CHAN), in a bold statement regarding age perceptions in African football.
The in-form 36-year-old stated in an honest interview that his primary focus remains on his club, Enyimba FC, Nigeria’s most successful team.
)
16:40 - 09.01.2025
Former Super Eagles striker Ideye breaks silence with powerful message after match-winner for Enyimba
AFCON 2013 winner with Super Eagles Brown Ideye has now scored in back-to-back matches for new side Enyimba.
)
13:51 - 06.01.2025
Household Name: Enyimba's coach hails ex-Super Eagles striker Ideye after new year gift for Nigerians
Brown Ideye celebrated his continental debut for Enyimba with a fantastic goal against Black Bulls Maputo.
Ideye's comments come after the Nigeria Super Eagles B team secured a spot in the tournament for the first time in six years, sparking speculation about his potential inclusion.
Since joining Enyimba as a free agent, Ideye has reminded Nigerians of his skills, scoring in consecutive matches, including on his CAF Confederation Cup debut against the Black Bulls and a recent goal against Nasarawa United in the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL).
)
With two goals in his first three appearances, he has captured the attention of fans and NPFL followers eager for his return to the national stage.
However, Ideye remains focused on his current club commitments. Speaking to News Central, he stated,
)
“Let’s not go there. The thing with Nigerians is that as you turn 30, they see you as old. As soon as you turn 30 in Africa, they see you as you should have retired. But they don’t know that at 30, that’s your peak.”
He further expressed his love for the game, explaining the sacrifices he has made for football.
)
“I should be chilling somewhere with my family, drinking cocktails and being on the beach. But because of the love I have for the game, I had to celebrate New Year away from my family,” Ideye said.
Despite rising calls for him to join the national team, he confirmed his commitment to Enyimba.
)
“At this moment, I’m not thinking of accepting any invitation for the CHAN. Right now, my focus is Enyimba, but if any other thing comes after, we can look at it. But for now, it’s just Enyimba,” he added.
Ideye's decision highlights the broader issue of age bias in African sports, where players often face undue pressure to step aside as they hit their thirties.
)
His performance continues to challenge the narrative surrounding ageing athletes and their value on the field.
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)