“I Was Dropped by Enugu Rangers Because I Was Not Igbo” - Moses Simon Opens Up on Alleged Tribalism During His Early Football Career

Super Eagles winger Moses Simon has made a shocking revelation about the challenges he faced at the start of his football journey, alleging that he was denied a professional contract by Enugu Rangers because of his ethnic background rather than his ability.

Speaking during an interview on Urban Dwells Sports, the Nigerian international said he had never publicly shared the experience before, describing it as one of the most painful moments of his early career.

“I never told anyone this story before, but it’s crazy. That year, I was dropped because I was not Igbo. It wasn’t because of my game; it was just tribalism.”

According to Simon, he spent three months training with Enugu Rangers and believed he had done enough to earn a professional contract. However, he said the situation took an unexpected turn when another player reportedly joined the club and secured a contract after just one week of training.

“I had been there for three months. An Igbo guy came, I’ve forgotten his name. He trained for one week and they signed him to a professional contract. I had been there for months. I was even his captain.”

The winger claimed he was later informed that his ethnic background played a role in the club’s decision not to sign him.

“They said it was because you are from the North,” he recalled. Simon said the experience left a lasting impression on him, although he chose not to speak about it publicly until now.

Despite the setback, the footballer refused to let the disappointment define his career. He went on to establish himself as one of Nigeria’s most successful football exports, playing professionally in Europe and becoming a key player for the Super Eagles.

His revelation has sparked widespread conversations on social media, with many Nigerians expressing disappointment over the alleged incident and calling for merit to remain the primary basis for opportunities in sports. Others praised Simon for persevering despite the alleged discrimination, noting that his success on the international stage is proof that setbacks can sometimes become stepping stones to greater achievements.