“Be wise and smart” – Ex-Nigeria and PSG player talks on if son will play for Super Eagles or Belgium

Former Nigeria international Furo Iyenemi has shared his thoughts on whether his son, Kaye Furo, will represent the Super Eagles or Belgium at the senior international level, Soccernet.ng reports.

The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has consistently worked to convince dual-nationality players to choose Nigeria over other nations.

From the likes of Ademola Lookman to Alex Iwobi, the push to retain talents with Nigerian heritage has been a priority. Kaye, the son of the former Super Eagles defender, is the latest in the spotlight, with his international future yet to be decided.

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For Iyenemi, the choice ultimately rests with his 17-year-old son. Speaking with OmaSports, the former Royale Antwerp defender revealed:

“When the time comes, he has to make the decision. But as they say, it won't be good for the oven’s child to enter the frying pot. Let me simplify it: my child shouldn’t suffer what I suffered. The way I was mistreated, the same should not happen to my son.”

Iyenemi’s leadership qualities shone during his playing career. He captained Nigeria to the quarterfinals of the 2000 Summer Olympics in Sydney and was a key figure in the Super Eagles’ run to the final of the 2000 African Cup of Nations. He played five matches in the tournament, but Nigeria lost the final to Cameroon in a penalty shootout.

However, Iyenemi’s career was marred by a lack of support after suffering an injury while representing Nigeria. Reflecting on this, the former Waregem player expressed his concerns about his son experiencing similar treatment.

“If you get injured while playing for the country and you were abandoned, and you found a way in Europe, and your son was also called up, will he play? When it comes to the kids, let them decide when the time comes and do what favours them. But be careful—don’t follow my footsteps. Try to be wise and smart,” Iyenemi advised.

Kaye joined Club NXT, the second-tier team of the Belgian Pro League, during the 2024 summer transfer window. The young forward has already made an impact, scoring six goals in 13 appearances.