Following Mason Greenwood’s decision to switch international allegiance from England to Jamaica, discussions have emerged about foreign-born Nigerian footballers who could still represent the Super Eagles under FIFA’s nationality switch regulations.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!Greenwood, currently playing for Marseille, formally applied to FIFA and the Football Association (FA) to change his allegiance after winning just one senior cap for England. FA Chief Executive Mark Bullingham confirmed that the process is irreversible, stating:
“My understanding is that he’s asked to switch—that’s happened formally, so he wouldn’t be able to switch again because you can only change allegiance once.”
With Nigeria looking to strengthen its squad for upcoming international tournaments, several foreign-born Nigerian footballers remain eligible for a switch, potentially boosting the national team’s depth.
Foreign-Based Nigerian Stars Eligible for Super Eagles
Under FIFA’s nationality switch rules, players who have represented one country at the youth level or in limited senior appearances can still switch if they meet eligibility criteria. Here are some top Nigerian-eligible players who could still wear the green and white jersey:
• Eberechi Eze (England) – The Crystal Palace midfielder has played for England’s senior team but remains eligible for Nigeria under FIFA’s rules.
• Michael Olise (France/England) – Another Crystal Palace talent, Olise is eligible to play for France, England, or Nigeria, making him a key target for a nationality switch.
• Noah Ohio (Netherlands) – The Standard Liège forward has represented the Netherlands at youth level but can still switch allegiance.
• Joshua Zirkzee (Netherlands) – The Bologna striker has Nigerian roots and could add firepower to Nigeria’s attack.
• Felix Nmecha (Germany) – A Borussia Dortmund midfielder who previously played for England’s youth teams, Nmecha is still eligible for a switch.
• Tosin Adarabioyo (England) – The Fulham defender has yet to feature for the Three Lions’ senior team, leaving the door open for Nigeria.
• Noni Madueke (England) – The Chelsea winger is another player who has played for England’s youth teams but remains an option for Nigeria.
• Carney Chukwuemeka (England) – Also from Chelsea, Chukwuemeka has Nigerian heritage and is yet to commit fully to England.
With FIFA allowing players to switch if they have played no more than three senior games before the age of 21, Nigeria’s football federation could push to secure commitments from these top talents.
As the Super Eagles prepare for future international tournaments, securing these players could prove pivotal in strengthening the squad and increasing competition for key positions.
