The captain of the Flying Eagles, Daniel Bameyi, expresses that his nomination for the CAF Young Player of the Year honored him and motivated him to put in even more effort. He discusses the path that led to this acknowledgment in an interview with OLAMIDE ABE.
Wishing you success on your nomination. How did you feel when you found out your name was among the best young players in Africa?
I am genuinely honored and profoundly thankful for this nomination. Learning that my name was included among the leading young players in Africa was a deeply moving and rewarding experience for me. Being acknowledged at such an esteemed level holds significant meaning, and it brings to mind the path I've traveled, the sacrifices made, and the numerous individuals who have stood by me throughout my career. I appreciate everyone who has had faith in me, provided encouragement, and contributed to shaping me into the player I am today. This honor inspires me to continue striving and staying dedicated to my objectives.
What significance does this acknowledgment from CAF hold for you on a personal and professional level?
This acknowledgment from CAF holds great importance for me both personally and professionally. Personally, I feel honored and deeply thankful that my hard work and performances have been recognized. It boosts my confidence and confirms that the daily efforts I make are having an impact. Professionally, it motivates me to stay concentrated, uphold discipline, and keep enhancing all areas of my game. It drives me to give even more to African football and to represent my club and country with increased pride and dedication. It encourages me to remain committed and continue aiming for the highest levels.
Reflecting on your year with the national team, which instances do you believe contributed to this nomination?
It's challenging to single out one specific moment since every success came from the combined efforts and collaboration of the team. Over the course of the year, we encountered key matches where we had to give our all for the national team, and I feel these performances demonstrated my dedication and reliability. The manner in which we handled critical games, the solidarity within the squad, and the drive to always stand for Nigeria with honor all contributed. I believe the nomination highlights not just my personal input but also the power and backing of the team supporting me.
You were mentioned along with players from prominent clubs such as Ajax and QPR. How does it feel to be acknowledged at the same level?
Being acknowledged at the same level as players from famous clubs like Ajax and QPR is both a humbling and highly motivating experience. It demonstrates that football recognizes dedication, enthusiasm, and regular performance, no matter where a player comes from. It serves as a reminder that the key factor is the commitment you show in your game every day. It inspires me to aim higher, remain driven, and have even more confidence in my potential. It also highlights that African football possesses great talent, and individuals from various backgrounds can excel when they put in the necessary effort. For me, it's a powerful motivation to keep striving harder and to continue representing my country with honor.
You didn't secure the award, but what significance does the nomination hold for your career and for Nigerian football?
Being shortlisted for the CAF award, regardless of the outcome, marks a significant achievement in my professional journey. It indicates that I am heading in the correct direction and motivates me to set even greater goals. It boosts my self-belief and inspires me to keep enhancing my performance. For Nigerian football, this nomination illustrates that our young talents are able to hold their own against the top players on the continent and gain acknowledgment at the highest level. It showcases the quality present within our system and emphasizes the advancements we are achieving. I view this as a win for both me and the whole country, as it brings honor to Nigeria and creates opportunities for more young players to be recognized.
Shortly before the World Cup, you not only guided the nation to a bronze medal but were also named in the tournament's Best XI. How are you feeling about this?
I am deeply proud and thankful. Entering a significant tournament such as the AFCON, being acknowledged as one of the top performers, and subsequently selected for the Best XI is a remarkable recognition for me. It holds substantial value because accomplishments of this nature can positively influence my career and create new possibilities.
However, I always emphasize that it wasn't just about me. The true heroes are my brothers, my teammates. They gave their all during the competition and deserve the greatest recognition. The coaches and support staff also made a significant contribution, encouraging us, supporting us, and ensuring we were prepared for every challenge. Whatever we accomplished in that tournament was a team effort, and I value each individual involved. Moving forward, my goal is to keep improving, to play for elite clubs, and most importantly, to represent and protect this incredible nation at the senior level with the Super Eagles. There's no greater joy than fighting for your country at any level. I believe there's still a lot more ahead, and I have faith that, with God's help, my career will remain on a successful trajectory.
Nigeria boasts a rich tradition of nurturing exceptional young talents. How proud are you to carry on that heritage?
It is a significant privilege to carry forward Nigeria's legacy of nurturing remarkable young talents. Reflecting on the greats and exceptional players who have emerged from our system brings me both pride and a sense of duty. Being part of this heritage drives me to constantly strive for improvement and to always perform at my highest level. I hope that through my path, I can encourage young players just as those before me have inspired me. It is an honor to be involved in a football nation with such a deep-rooted history of producing talent.
What advice do you have for young Nigerian athletes aspiring to take a similar path?
To each young Nigerian athlete with aspirations, I would like to emphasize that self-belief is crucial. Keep striving even when you feel overlooked, maintain discipline, and always be willing to learn from your coaches and fellow players. Soccer is a journey filled with obstacles, but if you remain consistent and give your best every day, your hard work will ultimately be recognized. Be patient, stay humble, and ensure you seize every chance to demonstrate your talent. The road might not always be easy, but with commitment, concentration, and belief, your moment will definitely arrive.
What are your individual objectives for the upcoming year, including both club and national team commitments?
My primary objective for the upcoming year is advancement in all aspects of my professional life. I intend to keep growing, acquiring new knowledge, and striving diligently to attain a higher level. At the club, I aspire to take on a more significant role within the team and provide consistent contributions throughout the season. With the national team, my goal is to keep representing Nigeria with honor and commitment whenever I am selected. I also aim to gain more chances, assist the team in achieving solid results, and play a part in elevating Nigerian football to new levels.
Provided by (zaianews.com).