Before becoming one of Nigeria’s most celebrated football stars, Super Eagles winger Moses Simon says he faced a life-changing ultimatum from his father that fueled his determination to succeed.
The Paris FC star revealed that his retired military father made it clear that failure in football was not an option, warning that if his dream didn’t work out, he would be enlisted into the military instead.
Rather than discouraging him, the tough stance became the motivation Simon needed to push through rejection, failed trials, and career setbacks until he finally earned his breakthrough in Europe.
Looking back on his remarkable journey, the Super Eagles star said the discipline instilled by his father and his refusal to give up helped shape the successful career he enjoys today.
Speaking in an interview with Urban Well Sports, Simon recalled that his father insisted a soldier’s son should never remain idle and warned that he would have to pursue a military career if football did not work out.
The 29-year-old said the ultimatum motivated him through difficult moments, including unsuccessful trials with Nigerian clubs and a failed move to Ajax before his fortunes changed when Dutch coach Tonnie Bruins Slot (Coach Bors) travelled to Kaduna to recruit him.
Simon revealed that before signing any contract, the coach gave him ₦200,000 and an additional ₦40,000 for transportation—an amount he described as life-changing in 2013. He said he was so overwhelmed that he kept the money under his pillow and struggled to sleep that night.
After returning home, Simon informed his father about the money and received his blessing to pursue his football career abroad. Reflecting on his journey, the winger said his father’s discipline, guidance, and belief in hard work prepared him for the challenges of professional football. He added that his experience taught him that perseverance and discipline eventually lead to success despite repeated setbacks.:::
Leave a Reply