“Always support your players” – Jose Peseiro reacts to Alex Iwobi’s social media abuse

Portuguese manager Jose Peseiro has addressed the issue of cyberbullying faced by Alex Iwobi following the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations final, Soccernet.ng reports.

After facing significant criticism and cyberbullying, prompting him to take a break from social media, Iwobi received support from Peseiro.

The 63-year-old manager thanked the media and encouraged them to support the Super Eagles players, emphasising their dedication to representing Nigeria.

Peseiro’s comments, made on his X handle, were interpreted as a response to Iwobi’s situation and the online bullying he endured after the final against Côte d’Ivoire.

“I want to thank all Nigerians and the entire press for the interest, support, and encouragement given to the Super Eagles while I was their coach. I would like to ask all of you to always support your players. These athletes give their all for the Super Eagles, taking pride in representing their country. The players make sacrifices to bring you joy,” he wrote.

He urged for continued support for the players, acknowledging their sacrifices and commitment to the national team.

He added: “The Super Eagles deserve all your support, which will be very important for the great challenges that lie ahead.”

I want to thank all Nigerians and the entire press for the interest, support, and encouragement given to the Super Eagles while I was their coach.

I would like to ask all of you to always support your players. pic.twitter.com/HHbOh6D1g3

— Jose Peseiro (@JosePeseiro) March 6, 2024

Meanwhile, Leon Balogun, a defender for Rangers FC, discussed potential solutions to combat online abuse during FIFPRO’s Workplace Safety For Footballers session on X (formerly Twitter) space.

Balogun revealed discussions with Ibrahim Gusau, President of the Nigeria Football Federation, regarding measures to address online abuse.

He suggested using law enforcement and cybersecurity to identify and prosecute offenders, emphasizing the severity of the issue.

“Probably the most effective way to go after people at this point in time is to really make examples, and go after them hard, use police force. I spoke to the President of the Nigeria Football Federation [Ibrahim Gusau] after what happened to Alex Iwobi after the AFCON final, and he said they are going to even use cybersecurity, like cyber police kind of to find out where this particular abuse stem from. Which i think it is a very extreme measure, but it is necessary.” he said as monitored by Soccernet.ng.

Iwobi recently made a comeback on social media, sharing a rap song in which he recounted his experiences and reaffirmed his dedication to the national team.

Ayomide Oguntimehin

Ayomide Oguntimehin is a CAF-accredited sports journalist and an Editor at Soccernet.ng, with a proven track record in conducting interviews with Super Eagles stars such as William Troost-Ekong, Taiwo Awoniyi, Bright Osayi-Samuel, Ademola Lookman, and many others. He has also made a significant impact in breaking transfer news stories.

Grounded in video editing, video journalism, social media management, and content strategy, Ayomide brings a wealth of expertise to his work.

With a Bachelor’s degree in English Language from Adeyemi College of Education and a Master’s Degree in School Library and Media Technology from the University of Ibadan, Ayomide is well-prepared to excel in the field.