Chido-Obi And Two England-Eligible Youngsters Who Could Still Play For Nigeria

Over the years, Nigeria and England have battled for teenagers who end up becoming world-class players.

Nigeria has won some and lost many of these youngsters to their former colonial masters. Ademola Lookman, Victor Moses and Alex Iwobi all dumped the Three Lions of England in favour of the Super Eagles.

On the contrary, the West African giants couldn't convince Bukayo Saka, Noni Madueke and Dele Alli to switch allegiance, as they went on to achieve greatness with England.

Interestingly, the fight is far from over, as a new wave of highly rated players could spark another tug of war.

In this article, we discuss three highly rated youngsters, all developed in England, who could still play for Nigeria.

3. David Ozoh 

This is one youngster many Nigerian fans are quietly keeping an eye on. The Derby County midfielder may not be the most popular name here yet, but his potential is huge.

Born in Valencia to Nigerian parents, he became Crystal Palace's youngest-ever Premier League player in 2023 (aged 17 years, eight months and 15 days) when he featured against Newcastle United.

However, he couldn't break into the Eagles' first team, and Derby signed him permanently this summer after two loans. He made 33 Championship appearances last season.

The midfielder is physically strong, calm under pressure, intelligent in positioning, and aggressive in midfield battles. He can win duels, protect the defence and control transitions.

Having played only five friendlies for England's Under-18s, he can still switch, and he has reportedly agreed to join Nigeria. 

2. Chido-Obi Martin 

Standing at number two is Chido-Obi Martin, a player many believe could become a goal-scoring machine like Erling Haaland.

Born in Denmark to a Danish mother and a Nigerian father, he scored a record 32 goals in just 18 Under-18 matches for Arsenal in 2023-24. No wonder Manchester United secured his signature in 2024.

Last season, he scored all four goals in United's 4-1 Premier League 2 win over Leicester City's Under-21s. In September, he joined Dutch club Willem II on loan in search of a regular senior football.

Chido-Obi is physically strong, intelligent with movement and incredibly composed in front of goal. Nigeria will eventually need a long-term replacement for Victor Osimhen, and he could become that next deadly striker.

Though he has played for Denmark from Under-16 to Under-21 and spoken warmly about them, Nigeria still has a slim chance through his roots.

Winning this battle would be one of the biggest switches in recent years.

1. ETHAN NWANERI

This is arguably the biggest talent on this list, and many fans already know his name.

He is the youngest player ever to appear in the Premier League, having come on for Arsenal against Brentford in September 2022 at 15 years and 181 days.

In his breakout 2024-25 season, the attacking midfielder scored nine goals in 37 appearances, and he later signed a contract running to 2030.

After a loan spell at Marseille, he joined Borussia Dortmund on loan in September for the 2026-27 season hoping to get regular first-team action. 

Technically, Nwaneri is outstanding. He's comfortable on the ball, creative under pressure and blessed with excellent vision. He can play as an attacking midfielder, winger or deeper playmaker.

England see him as one of the future faces of their national team, while Nigerians are still hoping he will choose his Nigerian heritage.

Imagine Ethan Nwaneri controlling games for the Super Eagles. That creativity alone could completely transform Nigeria's midfield.

Conclusion

With David Ozoh, Chido-Obi Martin and Ethan Nwaneri potentially available, the Super Eagles may be building a special generation for the future. However, the big question is who will eventually choose Nigeria. Well, time will tell.