Nigeria has successfully recruited dual-national players like Alex Iwobi, Ola Aina, and William Troost-Ekong in the past, and the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) continues to target overseas-born talents. Tosin Adarabioyo, a 27-year-old Chelsea centre-back, has represented England at youth level but remains eligible for Nigeria.
George Ilenikhena, an 18-year-old striker born in Lagos, plays for AS Monaco and previously represented France at youth level. Carney Chukwuemeka, a 21-year-old midfielder on loan at Borussia Dortmund, was born in Austria to Nigerian parents and raised in England, making him eligible for all three nations.
Tim Iroegbunam, a 21-year-old midfielder, has been crucial for Everton this season and could still represent Nigeria despite playing for England’s youth teams. Ethan Nwaneri, a 17-year-old attacking midfielder, has stepped up for Arsenal this season and remains eligible for Nigeria through his parents.
Michael Kayode, a talented right-back on loan at Brentford from Fiorentina, was named Best Italian U-21 Player in 2024 and is another player Nigeria could target. With many of these players yet to commit to a senior national team, the NFF must act swiftly to secure their allegiance.