KANO Pillars captain Rabiu Ali has revealed why he prohibits his children from playing football even if they have the potential of becoming footballers in the future.
The 43-year-old started playing football from his primary school days in Fagge, Kano and he also acknowledged that his children’s only chance of playing the game is also in school.
“Although we faced difficulty from our parents during our time and for me, I said my children won’t play football as well because even in my house I don’t allow it,” Ali told this newspaper.
Ali has been active in the Nigeria Premier Football League for about two decades but he would rather want his children to focus on their education before pursuing a football career.
“Of course, you don’t follow the kids to school or playground. If my child chooses to play, I will support him because that’s what he has opted to do, but he has to complete schooling before considering football,” he said.
Ali also opened up on his retirement plans, insisting that he wants to stay away from football to focus on his business and family after hanging his boots.
“I won’t be considering coaching as a career. I am a businessman and I’d rather return to my business so that I can spend more time with my family unlike now that you’re not always there. Everyday you’re not always around and the children keep growing without you being there for them even though they have people taking care of them but sometimes they wish you could also be with them often.”
Ali has played in the NPFL for about 16 years winning three back-to-back titles with Pillars in 2012, 2013 and 2014.
He has not slowed down in the current season, scoring one goal as Pillars occupy the fourth position in the table with 19 points.
