Enugu Rangers have released an official statement addressing Moses Simon’s recent revelation that he was dropped during his early trial with the club because he is not Igbo. The Super Eagles winger made the claim during an interview on Urban Dwell, in a video published on Friday, 10 July 2026.
The club has firmly denied the allegation, stressing that Rangers International has never maintained any policy of discrimination based on ethnicity, tribe, religion, or place of origin.
Below is the full statement issued on their official Facebook page:
Rangers International Football Club has taken note of comments attributed to Super Eagles star Moses Simon regarding his experience during a trial at the club many years ago.
While we respect every player’s right to recount his personal journey, it is important to clearly state that Rangers International FC has never maintained and does not maintain any policy of discrimination based on ethnicity, tribe, religion or place of origin.
For over five decades, Rangers has stood as one of Nigeria’s foremost national football institutions. Although proudly rooted in Enugu and the South East, the club has always belonged to Nigeria. Throughout its rich history, Rangers has been home to players, coaches and officials from virtually every part of the country and the continent, all united by one objective: excellence on the football pitch.
The club’s recruitment philosophy has always been based on footballing ability, character, discipline and commitment — not ethnic identity. Thousands of players have passed through Rangers over the years; some earned contracts, others did not. Such decisions are part of football and are influenced by numerous sporting, technical and administrative considerations. It would therefore be inaccurate to characterise Rangers as an institution that discriminates against players because of their ethnicity.
Indeed, the present‑day Rangers has deliberately strengthened the club’s commitment to professionalism, meritocracy, diversity and inclusion. Our men’s, women’s and youth teams continue to welcome talented footballers from every part of Nigeria and beyond, reflecting the club’s belief that football should unite rather than divide.
Rangers remains committed to providing equal opportunities to every talented player regardless of ethnic background, religion or geographical origin. The values that define this great club are excellence, integrity, discipline, hard work and unity.
As one of Nigeria’s most historic football institutions, Rangers will continue to serve as a symbol of national integration, where talent speaks rather than tribe and performance remains the ultimate criterion for opportunity.
Never Say Die.
Softfootball understands the statement was signed by the club’s General Manager/CEO, Amobi Ezeaku, Esq., on Friday, 10 July 2026.
