Former France international and Arsenal icon Bacary Sagna has called on Nigerian supporters to rally behind the Super Eagles after the team missed out on a place at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, arguing that the current group still possesses the ability to compete at the sport’s highest level.
Speaking during a Zoom interview with Supersport, Sagna said the players need encouragement and that the public should keep faith despite the disappointment of not reaching the tournament. He pointed to the psychological strain that comes with representing a national team at major competitions.
Having previously featured for France at the World Cup, Sagna admitted he had anticipated Nigeria would secure qualification for the finals in the United States, Canada and Mexico.
“Nigeria remains one of the biggest football nations in Africa,” Sagna said. “When I arrived, I was expecting Alex Iwobi and Nigeria to be there. When I saw that they didn’t qualify, it was a shock to me, because for me Nigeria has a strong set of players abroad, and they also have the quality to earn one of the tournament tickets.”
The ex-right-back—who spent seven years with Arsenal before moving on to the English Premier League with Manchester City—suggested Nigeria’s failure to qualify is proof that having talent is only part of the equation.
“Football is not easy,” he continued. “Having great players doesn’t automatically make a team, and it doesn’t guarantee wins. As much as Nigeria wants to win, other countries are also chasing the same goal.”
Even with the letdown, Sagna insisted Nigeria’s football standing should not be judged by this single outcome, adding that the missed qualification should not be treated as a stain on the programme.
“It is not a shame on them for not qualifying,” he said.
Across his own playing career, Sagna built a reputation as one of Europe’s most reliable defenders. He made 284 appearances for Arsenal, lifted the 2014 FA Cup, and was included in the PFA Team of the Year during his first Premier League campaign. He also represented France at UEFA Euro 2016, helping Les Bleus reach the final.
After hanging up his boots, Sagna transitioned into coaching and is currently in charge of Banaat FC in the United Arab Emirates. There, he has worked with the women’s team, leading them to league success and securing qualification for the Asian Champions League.
