Giuseppe Igbeare, a 35-year-old football coach with Nigerian-Italian heritage, has been appointed as assistant coach for Tajikistan’s under-17 national team, marking a significant step in his career and underscoring the broader benefits of migration in global sports.
Igbeare, born and raised in Santa Sofia, Italy, to a Nigerian father and Italian mother, officially joined the Tajik team’s coaching staff in July following a successful trial period. He is now gearing up for the FIFA U17 World Cup in Qatar this November, with preparations including an international tournament in Indonesia featuring matches against Mali, Uzbekistan, and the host nation.
The son of electronic engineer Barry Otasowie Igbeare and retired teacher Giuseppina Cavallucci, Igbeare has built his career on a foundation of education and youth development in football. His multicultural background has shaped his approach, blending African and Italian influences into a philosophy centered on inclusivity and talent nurturing.
This appointment comes amid growing discussions about the positive impacts of migration. The Concerned Nigerians and Migrants Forum, which issued a statement on Igbeare’s achievement, praised him as an example of successful integration and active citizenship.
“His story shows how crucial it is for governments – both in Italy and across Europe – to change their approach to migration,” the forum stated. “Citizenship should not be treated as a barrier, but rather as a powerful tool for inclusion. We call on institutions to promote a more inclusive and modern active citizenship law that acknowledges the skills, values, and contributions migrants bring to our societies. Migration is not a threat – it is a strength.”
Igbeare’s journey from local roots in Santa Sofia to an international role reflects how individuals with diverse backgrounds can contribute to cultural exchange and professional growth in sports and beyond.






