Super Eagles winger Moses Simon has claimed he was denied the opportunity to sign for Enugu Rangers at the start of his career because he was not of Igbo origin, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.
The Paris FC star made the revelation during an interview with UrbanDwellSport, recalling a disappointing experience after spending three months on trial with the seven-time Nigeria Premier Football League champions.
According to Simon, he impressed the coaching staff throughout the screening exercise and was even appointed captain of the trial team, leaving him convinced that he had earned a professional contract.
However, the winger alleged that he was overlooked despite his performances, while another player was signed after only a brief trial.
"I went to Rangers and trained with them for three months. I wasn't signed, but I was training with them. In fact, I was the captain of the 'screening' team.
"I've never told anyone this story; this is the first time, but it was a disgrace. I was dropped because I was not Igbo.
"I was there for three months, and a guy came I have forgotten his name; he's an Ibo guy, he just trained one week, and they signed him, professional contract, they said because I was from the north or something."
Despite the setback, Simon went on to build a successful career in Europe.
In January 2014, he signed a three-year contract with Slovak club Tren?ín and made his league debut in a 1-1 draw against MFK Košice.
He also featured in the UEFA Europa League during the 2014/15 campaign, making his continental debut in Tren?ín's second qualifying round tie against Serbian side Vojvodina Novi Sad.
The Nigerian international later enjoyed successful spells with Belgian club Gent and Spanish side Levante before joining French outfit Nantes on an initial loan move in August 2019. Nantes eventually exercised the option to make the transfer permanent following his impressive performances.
During his time at Gent, Simon won the Belgian Pro League title and the Belgian Super Cup, while he also lifted the Coupe de France with Nantes.
On the international stage, the winger has represented Nigeria at four Africa Cup of Nations tournaments, featuring at the 2019, 2021, 2023 and 2025 editions.