Former Nigeria international Peter Odemwingie has questioned the suitability of players competing outside Europe’s leading leagues to captain their national teams.
Odemwingie argued that national team captains should be playing at the highest level of club football, claiming that a decline in competitive intensity can affect a player’s performances on the international stage.
“Any player who is not playing in a top league should not be allowed to captain a national team,” Odemwingie said.
The former Super Eagles forward used Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo as an example, pointing to the veteran forward’s move to the Saudi Pro League as evidence of what he believes is a decline in international form.
“Take a look at Cristiano Ronaldo, who is playing in Saudi Arabia,” he added. “We can see the decline in his form at international level. He’s riding on past glories.”
Odemwingie’s comments are likely to generate debate, particularly given Ronaldo’s continued importance to Portugal despite playing his club football in Saudi Arabia.
The five time Ballon d’Or winner remains one of the most decorated players in international football and has continued to score for Portugal well into his thirties.
However, Odemwingie believes national team leadership should be based not only on past achievements but also on a player’s current level of competition.
His remarks also raise a broader question about whether national team captains should be selected according to their current club environment or their leadership qualities, experience and influence within the national setup.
