Euro 2024 is witnessing a unique phenomenon – a surge of players with Nigerian descent making a splash for their adopted European nations. From England’s Bukayo Saka to Switzerland’s Manuel Akanji, these individuals are showcasing not just their talent, but also the global reach of Nigerian ancestry.
Manuel Akanji (Switzerland)
Manchester City’s Manuel Akanji, born in Winterthur, Switzerland to a Nigerian father and a Swiss mother, has emerged as a crucial figure for the Swiss defense. His middle name, Obafemi, is a tribute to Nigerian football legend Obafemi Martins. Akanji has publicly acknowledged his Nigerian heritage, even visiting the country on several occasions. While choosing Switzerland at the international level, he hasn’t shied away from his roots. Swiss coach Murat Yakin praised Akanji’s composure under pressure, calling him “an absolute leader at the back.”
He was voted Man of the Match in Switzerland’s second game against Scotland which ended in a draw.
Noah Okafor (Switzerland)
AC Milan’s Noah Okafor, born in Salzburg, Austria to a Nigerian father and an Austrian mother, has been a revelation for Switzerland. Despite interest from the Nigerian national team, Okafor opted to represent Switzerland, the country where he spent his formative years. His electrifying pace and clinical finishing have earned praise from coach Yakin, who said, “Noah brings a youthful exuberance and directness to our attack. He’s a real handful for defenders.”
Bukayo Saka (England)
The Arsenal winger, Bukayo Saka, was born in London, England to Nigerian parents. He has spoken fondly about visiting Nigeria on holiday and connecting with his family’s heritage. Saka has even hinted at the possibility of playing for Nigeria in the future, keeping the door open for a potential switch. Saka’s assist for Jude Bellingham’s crucial goal against Serbia showcased his creative prowess, prompting England coach Gareth Southgate to say, “Bukayo’s a special talent. He brings a calmness and maturity to his game that belies his young age.”
Eberechi Eze (England)
Crystal Palace’s Eberechi Eze, born in Greenwich, London to Nigerian parents, was called up by the Nigerian U-20 team in 2017 but ultimately chose to pursue a career with England. Eze has yet to publicly comment on his reasons for choosing England, but his performances at Euro 2024 could reignite discussions about his international future. While not featuring in the first game, his inclusion ahead of established stars like Marcus Rashford and Jack Grealish emphasizes his potential according to coach Southgate.
Jamal Musiala (Germany)
Bayern Munich’s Jamal Musiala presents a unique case. Born in Stuttgart, Germany to a Nigerian father and a German mother, Musiala has represented both England (youth level) and Germany. He ultimately pledged his allegiance to Germany, where he spent most of his childhood. Musiala speaks fondly of his Nigerian heritage and embraces his multicultural background. A goal and a Player of the Match performance in Germany’s victory over Scotland cemented his place in the starting lineup. Germany coach Hansi Flick commented, “Jamal is a generational talent. His ability to glide past defenders and create chances is truly remarkable.”
Michael Folorunsho (Italy)
Michael Folorunsho, a midfielder currently on loan at Hellas Verona from Napoli, has a surprising call-up to the Italian squad. Born in Rome, Italy to Nigerian parents, Folorunsho has never publicly expressed a desire to play for Nigeria. However, his inclusion in the Italian squad shows the growing pool of talented footballers with Nigerian roots flourishing in Europe. Though he came on as a substitute in the first game, coach Roberto Mancini praised his work ethic and tactical awareness, hinting at a potential starting role in upcoming matches.