Remo Stars Sports Club coach, Daniel Ogunmodede has expressed his desire to explore the opportunities outside the shores of Nigeria but feels happy to be back with the club ahead of the confederation cup billed for September 2022.
Ogunmodede who was unveiled on the 5th of August after returning from training in Portugal disclosed this on Wednesday in an exclusive interview on a Nigerian sports WhatsApp group, ‘Sports Connect’ as monitored by platinumnewsng.com
“It means a lot to me, though maybe I would have loved to be in Europe, but I can’t say no to Remo. It’s a clarion call for me and it means so much to me.”
Ijaball as popularly called recounted how he ventured into coaching and how far he has come in the profession.
“I started coaching when I was 15 immediately after my secondary school. I couldn’t play football again because of this major operation I underwent and I felt I shouldn’t leave the game like that, so I delved into it and ran a boys club during my university days for about 10 years.
“Lagbenro saw me and brushed me up, paid for my tuition fee to take a coaching course at NIS after which I did my IT with Crown where they staffed me as a fourth coach. I spent 7 years and was part of the crew that promoted the team with the likes of Lawrence Akpokona, Baby Niyi Akande, Ganiu Salami, Busari, and Oladuni Oyekale.”
“I left the club in 2015 and came to Remo as an assistant coach. A year later, I started the youth project in the club and at some point in the Premier League. I assisted Nduka Ugbade, Kennedy Boboye and here I am today.”
Sharing his experience on his stay in, the 42 years old acknowledged that the move was a big game changer in his coaching career exposing him to new methods and ways of coaching.
“Being in Portugal is the greatest height for me and a turning point in my career. It’s a different ball game in Europe, better facilities, experience and all that.”
“I was able to learn more new things, a different philosophy of coaching. I feel like a better professional now as I was able to learn new things to add to my coaching career, it’s a fantastic experience for me.”
“It’s my first time as a Coach in the CAF Confederation cup and I think it’s worth coming back for I’m so elated to have been there and be the first coach to take the club to continental. I feel elated, I can’t say no to the club, it’s been my project for years and I am happy.” Ogunmodede said.
“It’s worth it after all these years working relentlessly, I’m happy to be back home.”
Ogunmodede is expected to lead Remo Stars in the CAF confederation cup as they face FAR Rabat on the 9th of September.
Photos: Remo Stars FC