Former Super Eagles defender Garba Lawal has expressed concern over the behaviour of young Nigerian footballers playing abroad, following reports that midfielder Daniel Daga was allegedly sentenced to six months in prison.
Speaking in an interview cited by Complete Sports, Lawal said the situation highlights the risks young players face when they fail to conduct themselves properly in foreign countries.
According to the former international, even a brief detention can severely damage a player’s reputation and career prospects.
“If they put you for one day or even for some hours, it can dent your integrity,” Lawal said. “When you come out, which club in Europe will want to sign you? Even back home in Nigeria, people will begin to see you differently.”
Lawal added that he was deeply troubled by the development, noting that such incidents could negatively affect the future of young Nigerian footballers.
“I saw the report this morning and I wept for the coming generation of players,” he said. “It’s really unfortunate.”
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The ex-Super Eagles star also warned that players abroad must be mindful of the laws in the countries where they ply their trade, stressing that foreigners are particularly vulnerable in legal disputes.
“You went to their country where they have the law in their hands. Anything the girl says, they may believe her because you are a foreigner,” he said.
Reflecting on his own playing career, Lawal advised young footballers to remain focused and avoid situations that could put their careers at risk.
“As a young player, you must be very careful. If it’s because of women you want to travel to Europe, why go there? We have beautiful women here in Nigeria,” he added.
Lawal further noted that even if clubs or legal representatives attempt to challenge such cases, the damage to a player’s public image may already have been done.
“Maybe the club can fight for him and reduce the punishment, but once your integrity is spoiled, it’s difficult to take it back,” he said.