By Ellams Awwal
Mustapha Salisu, once prolific goal scorer for NPFL team Katsina United. In the previous two seasons, Salisu showcased his prowess emerging top goal scorer for the Chanji boys before embarking on a free transfer that led him back to Kano Pillars.
Now at Pillars Salisu, Known for his electrifying pace and skillful plays, has become an enigma this season. Despite starting several matches from the bench and making impactful appearances in five games, Salisu’s name vanished from the squad list after matchday 16, leaving fans puzzled.
Contrary to speculation about injuries, reliable sources confirm that Salisu is fit and well. The mystery deepens as it appears that he has fallen out of favor with Coach Abdul Maikaba, a surprising turn of events given the coach’s track record of providing opportunities to young talents.
This season witnessed Coach Maikaba’s commitment to nurturing emerging players, with a focus on building a formidable team around the likes of Mustapha Salisu, Tsamage, Muhammad Aminu, Mustapha Umar, and Mubarak Sani. These rising stars were set to complement the experience of seasoned players like Mustapha Yuga and Rabiu Ali Pele leading Pillars attack.
The absence of Salisu raises questions about the underlying dynamics within the team. Could there be more to this situation than meets the eye? Football enthusiasts are left wondering about the factors that led to Salisu’s sudden disappearance and the implications for Kano Pillars’ strategic lineup.
Ndagi Suleiman says: “Although a team is bigger than any player. I found it odd that while recently promoted Junior team players like Tsamage and Mustapha Umar makes it only two wingers the coach has at his disposal. I would have thought somebody like Salisu with more experience would be given more playing time.”
As the season unfolds, the spotlight remains on Mustapha Salisu, a missing piece in the football puzzle, whose absence sparks curiosity and speculation among fans eager to see the talented winger back in action.