Super Falcons head coach Justine Madugu has provided key updates. He discussed the pursuit of Real Sociedad forward Edna Imade. Madugu also shared private details about his historic Ballon d’Or nomination.
Edna Imade’s Super Falcons Future Remains Unclear
Imade is one of Nigeria’s most exciting attacking talents. She has been on the Falcons’ radar for over a year. Despite this, she remains unavailable for selection. Coach Madugu states the situation is more complex than fans realize.
“I’ve been following her progress closely,” Madugu told Punch. “I also monitor many of our overseas players. She had an excellent campaign with Granada last season. Now, she is performing well at Real Sociedad. She knows we are monitoring her.”
According to Madugu, the federation has acted. They have written to her club. They also reached out through players in Spain. Every effort was made to invite her to camp. However, the forward has not fully committed.
“I was reliably informed she was initially keen to play for Nigeria,” Madugu stated. “I don’t want to believe her representatives are creating difficulties. This might be due to speculated interest from the Spanish national team. Nevertheless, we truly value her talent.”
He added that the door remains open. This stands regardless of her final choice. “Whatever she decides, we respect it,” the coach affirmed. “We wish her good luck.”
Reflecting on a Historic Ballon d’Or Nomination
Madugu himself entered the global spotlight this year. He made history. He became the first African coach nominated for the Ballon d’Or women’s coaching award. While celebrated across Africa, he knew he would not win. This was clear long before the ceremony.
“The fact that I was not contacted meant it would be difficult to win,” he explained. “If I had won then, who would have received the award? Being contacted would have given me more hope.”
The coach watched the ceremony with friends and family. He enjoyed the moment despite the outcome.
“Somehow, I had already prepared my mind,” he noted. “I knew I wasn’t going to win. Regardless, I watched every bit of the ceremony. I truly enjoyed it. My name was mentioned globally. Being the first African nominee also means a lot.”
Amidst this attention, Madugu remains focused. He looks ahead to upcoming qualifiers. He also eyes the intense battle for starting spots. Esther Okoronkwo, Chiwendu Ihezuo, and Joy Omewa are currently in strong form. They are key players in the Falcons’ attack.
“We must always select the best players available,” he emphasized.
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