The atmosphere here is different - Former MFM coach Olalekan Gabriel shares his experience coaching outside Nigeria

After working as an assistant and also coach of MFM FC before they relegated from Nigeria's topflight football in 2022, Olalekan Gabriel shifted his focus Benin Republic Premier League, where he moved a team from 5th to top of the log in less than 5 games played, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

Super, as fondly called was without a club in Nigeria after MFM FC's relegation and after waiting for a few years decided to take a trip outside the nation where he secured a job on probational basis with JAK FC, a team currently partaking in the Relegation South Playoff.

With the team seated 5th on the log, Gabriel was asked to see them through the playoffs and help secure their Premier League status which so far looks achievable as they are currently top of the log with 14 points from 7 games, closely followed by ASVO on 12 points from the same number of games.

Speaking exclusively to Nigeriasoccernet.com, Gabriel said: "I learnt a lot of lessons during my days coaching MFM FC. I worked under different coaches, learnt a lot of things and of-course the atmosphere of Nigeria can not be compared."

"The weather here is harsh, their pattern of league different as well but they have better facilities. I don't have a contract for now. I'm currently on probation. I joined them with 10 games left and contract is for me to finish the season after which I will decided if i want to stay with them or not," he concludes.

Gabriel work as one of the backroom staffs of Fidelis Ilechukwu during his coaching days at MFM FC. He also worked with several other coaches and was manned the main managerial position of the club.

By Oluwayemi Omolagba