Former Poland international Emmanuel Olisadebe has encouraged Arsenal’s rising star Ethan Nwaneri to represent Nigeria instead of England at the senior level, according to Soccernet.ng.
Nwaneri, one of the most promising young talents in English football, has made impressive strides at Arsenal. At just 17, he continues to showcase immense potential in domestic and Premier League competitions.
The attacking midfielder made history on September 18, 2022, when he became the youngest-ever Arsenal player and the youngest to appear in a Premier League match at just 15 years and 181 days—surpassing records set by Harvey Elliott and Sunderland’s Derek Forster, whose mark had stood since 1964.
Born in England to Nigerian parents, Nwaneri has represented England at the youth level and is reportedly on the radar of Three Lions manager Thomas Tuchel. Recent speculation suggests that both he and fellow Arsenal youngster Myles Lewis-Skelly could receive their first senior England call-ups next month.
However, Nwaneri remains eligible to switch his international allegiance to Nigeria—a move that could be attractive given the Super Eagles’ current need for a dynamic attacking midfielder. With Samuel Chukwueze and Nathan Tella struggling for consistency, Nwaneri could provide a fresh spark for Nigeria’s offense.
Olisadebe, who was born in Nigeria but chose to play for Poland during his career, understands the complexities of such a decision. He believes that many Nigerian-origin players struggle to establish themselves in England’s senior squad and suggests that committing to Nigeria could be a more fulfilling path.
“I think it boils down to the player himself,” Olisadebe told ThisDay. “I was in a similar situation and ultimately chose Poland. Each player must decide what’s best for them. If he feels England is the right choice, that’s fine.
“But we all know how England operates—they might give him one cap and then move on. It’s a tough decision, and I just hope he makes the right one.”
Olisadebe’s concerns are not without precedent. Several players of Nigerian descent, such as Gabriel Agbonlahor and Dele Alli, received England caps but were not fully integrated into the squad, missing out on major tournaments.
More recently, talents like Eberechi Eze, Tammy Abraham, and Fikayo Tomori have found it difficult to secure regular playing time with the Three Lions despite their talent.
On the other hand, players who committed to Nigeria have enjoyed more significant international careers. Alex Iwobi and Ola Aina have won bronze and silver medals at the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), while Atalanta’s Ademola Lookman—who switched from England to Nigeria—was named the 2024 African Footballer of the Year after a stellar season in AFCON, Serie A, and the Europa League.
With the Nigerian national team, The Super Eagles looking to build for the future, Nwaneri’s decision could shape his international career for years to come.
