Enugu Rangers Deny Moses Simon’s Ethnicity-Based Trial Rejection Claim
Enugu Rangers, the current NPFL champions, have dismissed allegations made by Super Eagles winger Moses Simon that he was overlooked for a contract because he is not Igbo.
Simon, who now plays for French Ligue 1 club Paris FC, claimed during an interview with UrbanDwellSport that after a three‑month trial with the Flying Antelopes he was not offered a deal despite serving as captain of the screening team.
The 30‑year‑old asserted that he believed his performances were satisfactory and that a fellow player from the South‑East who trained for only one week was signed instead, suggesting ethnic bias.
Club’s Official Response
In a statement posted on the club’s official X account, Enugu Rangers firmly rejected the accusation, stressing that ethnicity has never played a role in its recruitment decisions.
The statement reads: “While we respect every player’s right to recount his personal journey, Rangers International FC has never maintained, and does not maintain, any policy of discrimination based on ethnicity, tribe, religion or place of origin.”
The club highlighted its longstanding commitment to national unity, noting that over five decades it has welcomed players, coaches and officials from across Nigeria and the continent, all united by the pursuit of excellence on the pitch.
Rangers reiterated that football ability, discipline, character and commitment are the sole criteria for signing players, and that decisions not to offer contracts are part of the normal sporting process.
Current management has reinforced professionalism, meritocracy, diversity and inclusion across the men’s, women’s and youth teams, continuing to recruit talent from throughout Nigeria and beyond.
Enugu Rangers concluded by affirming its dedication to equal opportunities for every talented player, regardless of ethnic background, religion or geographical origin, and reiterated that the club’s values are excellence, integrity, discipline, hard work and unity.
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