Former Remo Stars captain and Super Eagles defender Junior Nduka has shared why he decided to continue his career with Sporting Club Delhi in India after playing in Nigeria and Iraq.
Nduka rose through the Remo Stars youth ranks and captained the team to their first NPFL title. He recently moved to SC Delhi after spending a season in the Iraqi League.
In this exclusive chat with PREMIUM TIMES, Nduka talks about what drew him to India, the lessons he learned in Iraq, how he picks clubs, and why money matters in a football career.
Excerpts…
PT: You just moved to SC Delhi in India. What went through your mind when this opportunity came up, and why did you decide to go?
NDUKA JNR: When I thought about the move, I focused on what the club would offer. We are not just playing for passion; we need to make money.
That’s why I picked Sporting Club Delhi. Besides the financial aspect, it’s a good club. After checking everything I needed to know about them, I felt it was the right choice because I know it’s a solid club.
It’s a competitive league. Some people think these countries do not play good football, but that’s not true. They have good facilities and play well. Those thoughts influenced my decision to go to India.
PT: You moved from Remo Stars to Iraq and now to India in a short time. How do you see this phase of your career, and how has it challenged you?
NDUKA JNR: Each league is different. The Nigerian Premier Football League and the Iraqi Stars League are not the same.
The experience I got from the NPFL, playing on the continent, and with the national team helped me in Iraq. Now, going to Sporting Club Delhi means I will face a different environment, new teammates, and new tactics.
But as a professional, I know how to adapt to these changes. I just hope everything goes smoothly.
PT: What did your time in Iraq teach you about playing in a new football environment that might help you in India?
NDUKA JNR: The main lesson from Iraq is how to adapt quickly.
You go to a new country and play differently than you are used to. You need to fit into their system and style of play, and understand how they behave on the pitch.
PT: You were linked with other clubs before choosing SC Delhi. How competitive was that process, and why did you think this was the right move for you?
NDUKA JNR: I wouldn’t say it was competitive. I focus on what I want and what is best for me as a player.
I saw many opinions online, but those are not my thoughts. Those people won’t pay my bills after I stop playing.
Data is cheap these days. You can get 100 MB for 100 naira, check things online, and write whatever you want without understanding the player’s situation.
For example, if someone offers $3,000 outside Nigeria, why would I stay in the NPFL just because someone thinks that country is not good for football? I decide what is best for me.
PT: SC Delhi is making waves in Indian football. What have the club and coaches told you about their expectations, and what role do they want you to play?
NDUKA JNR: I spoke with the sporting director and the coach, but what we discussed is private.
I plan to help the club because they are serious about their goals. They are a good team that knows what they want. It was unfortunate that we lost in the Durand Cup semi-final to East Bengal, which shows their ambition.
PT: You are known for your defensive skills and ability to play from the back. What aspects of your game do you want to improve or bring to the team in India?
NDUKA JNR: They are a prepared team. I will contribute what I can. As a defender, playing from the back is important, but first, I need to help defend. After that, I will look for opportunities to pass and support the attack.
If the coach wants me to play a certain way, I will adjust. If not, I will stick to my role.
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