Ifeanyi Ubah FC of Nnewi, Anambra State on Wednesday unveiled six Brazilian players in a bid to fortify its team ahead of the 2015/2016 Nigeria Professional Football League.
The News Agency of Nigeria reports that the players, who were received at the Muritala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos, were accompanied by two Brazilian coaches.
Chukuma Ubah, the Chairman of the club, who received the players at the airport, told newsmen that the players were in the country for trials into the club.
Ubah said the decision was borne out of the club’s quest to give capable footballers from any part of the world the opportunity to play in the league.
He said: “This is the first time in the history of Nigeria that we will have players from Brazil playing in our league.
“We decided that even if you are Messi or Ronaldo, you must touch the ball before we sign you on to our club.
“We have seen situations where players don’t disclose that they have injury, all in the name joining a club by all means.
“So, we are here to receive them as a team and we are happy to have them in Nigeria.”
The chairman added that the club was willing to sign more Nigerian players that can meet the club’s criteria, noting that the arrival of the Brazilians would not deprive Nigeria players of their chances.
Ubah said: “Our target as a club is to bring good football to the country.
“Ifeanyi Ubah FC is still open to home-based players for trials.
“Our players can learn from the Brazilians if they are better than them and likewise the Brazilians can also learn from our players.
“The owner of the club is a man of integrity and all he wants is the best for the club.”
One of the players, who identified himself as Ramirez and spoke through an interpreter, said he was delighted to be in Nigeria.
The player said Nigerian footballers were well recognized around the world due to their skillful play.
Ramirez added that he would take advantage of his stay in the country to familiarise with Nigerian culture and people.
The NPFL is expected to kick off on February 21.
The proprietor, Ifeanyi Ubah, a business mogul, was a governorship aspirant on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party in 2014.
NAN.
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