‘I Never Knew I Was Black Until I Got to Germany’ — Okocha on Racism

Published on July 28, 2026

Former Super Eagles captain Jay-Jay Okocha has opened up about his experience with racism during the early stages of his football career in Germany, revealing that it changed his perspective and fueled his determination to succeed on the pitch.

Reflecting on his time in Germany, Okocha said:

“I never knew I was Black until I got to Germany, the rate of racism there was too high. The only legal way for me to pay them back was to dribble them.”

Okocha began his European career in Germany in the early 1990s, where he played for Borussia Neunkirchen before joining Bundesliga side Eintracht Frankfurt. It was there that his dazzling dribbling ability earned him global recognition and established him as one of Africa’s most gifted footballers.

ALSO READ: ‘I Have Nothing More to Give’: Lionel Messi Announces Retirement from International Football

Widely regarded as one of Nigeria’s greatest football icons, Okocha has often spoken about the challenges of adapting to a new culture and language in Europe. Despite those obstacles, he transformed adversity into motivation, using his creativity and flair to win admiration from fans around the world.

His remarks have resurfaced online, sparking conversations about racism in football and highlighting the resilience that defined his illustrious career.

For advert placement, publication of news content, articles, videos or any other news worthy materials on this Website, kindly send mail to [email protected].