In a surprising move, 23-year-old Nigerian striker Robert Mizo has made a significant career leap by signing with Libyan club Al Hilal, departing from the Nigeria Premier Football League team Bayelsa United on November 5, 2023.
Despite boasting an impressive record of 10 goals in the ongoing Nigerian Professional Football League, Mizo has chosen to embark on a new football journey, committing to a three-and-a-half-year contract with Al Hilal.
The transfer, however, ignited a wave of controversy on social media, particularly on Twitter, where many Nigerians expressed concern and disapproval of Mizo’s decision.
Some criticized the move, questioning the advisability of playing in Libya, given the current circumstances.
One user stated, “Nigerian players and desperation. Why would anyone go to a place like Libya at this time? What kind of advisers would tell him to move there? I’d rather keep playing in the Nigeria league than play in Libya.”
Others raised doubts about the perceived improvement of the Libyan league over the Nigerian league, with one user questioning, “Please, if I may ask, is Libyan league better than Nigeria League?”
Amid the mixed reactions, some defended Mizo’s choice, emphasizing the challenges faced by players in the Nigerian league. One user commented, “Our league is so bad and players underpaid, na why him go leave NPFL dey go Libya…..all the best Mizo.”
This unexpected move by Robert Mizo has sparked a broader conversation about the evolving landscape of African football and the choices players make to advance their careers.
