Samson Siasia, the celebrated former Super Eagles player and coach, has officially announced his return to the world of football with renewed vigor and determination after completing a five-year ban imposed by FIFA. The ban, initially a lifetime penalty for an alleged match-fixing incident, was reduced to five years by the Court of Arbitration for Sport in 2019.
Speaking at an event organized by friends and supporters of the Siaone Soccer Academy in Abuja, Siasia opened up about the emotional turmoil he endured during his suspension. “The last five years were filled with pain and emotional anguish,” he revealed. “The ban came as a shock to me, for an offense I never committed. I was charged, investigated, tried, and sentenced without ever being informed or given a chance to defend myself.”
Siasia, who has had a stellar 25-year coaching career, expressed gratitude for the support he received during this challenging period. He emphasized that despite being sidelined, he never lost touch with his passion for football. “In my over 25 years of coaching, I have always maintained my principles and character with utmost sincerity. The ban did not stop me from updating my knowledge of the game,” he said.
Now 57, Siasia is more determined than ever to see Nigeria reclaim its place among the world’s footballing elite. “I did not spend the last five years idly. Every day was a period of reflection and learning. Today, I return to football more resolved, more committed, and unbowed. For five years, I was down, but I am certainly not out,” he declared.
Siasia also took the opportunity to thank his family, supporters, and the media for their unwavering support. He expressed his deep appreciation to the committee of friends and parents of Siaone Soccer Academy for organizing the event in his honor, marking the beginning of a new chapter in his storied career.
With his return, Siasia is poised to make a significant impact on Nigerian football, bringing his experience, passion, and renewed energy to the sport he has dedicated his life to.
