Global Eagles: Top 10 Nigerian-Born Footballers Making Waves Internationally

Nigerian footballers have made their mark on the international stage, not just for the Super Eagles but for other national teams as well. Here’s a look at the top 10 Nigerian footballers who are showcasing their talents for other countries:

Emmanuel Sarki (Haiti) - Sarki’s journey with the Nigerian youth system was promising, but he chose to represent Haiti, citing issues with the Nigerian Football Association.
Angelo Ogbonna (Italy) - Born to Nigerian parents in Italy, Ogbonna’s defensive prowess has been a significant asset to the Italian national team.
Manuel Akanji (Switzerland) - Akanji, known for his game-reading abilities, plays for Switzerland despite his Nigerian heritage through his father.
Ikechi Anya (Scotland) - Anya, born to a Nigerian father and Romanian mother, represents Scotland, where he has played his best professional football
Fikayo Tomori (England) - Tomori impressed at Chelsea and chose to play for England, a decision that has been both celebrated and lamented by fans
David Alaba (Austria) - One of the most renowned footballers of Nigerian descent, Alaba has been a key player for Austria ¹.
Ebere Eze (England) - A skilled midfielder, Eze is caught between representing England or Nigeria, with the Nigerian Football Federation showing keen interest
Michael Olise (France/England) - Eligible to play for Nigeria, France, Algeria, or England, Olise’s talent has been recognized by several national teams
Bukayo Saka (England) - Saka has been in excellent form for England, making a strong case for his selection with performances like a hat-trick against North Macedonia
Dele Alli (England) - Although not mentioned in the search results, Dele Alli is another prominent footballer of Nigerian descent who has chosen to represent England at the international level.

These players represent a blend of talent and heritage, and their decisions to play for other national teams have been influenced by various factors, including personal choice, career opportunities, and the footballing environment they grew up in. Their success continues to highlight the global nature of football and the diverse backgrounds of its players.