Teen Duo Ajayi and Olusesi Eye Europa League Breakthrough for Spurs

Tottenham Hotspur’s Europa League final against Manchester United may hold added significance for two emerging Nigerian talents, Damola Ajayi and Callum Olusesi, who have travelled with the squad to Bilbao for tonight’s showdown at San Mames Stadium.

Though Victor Musa and Habeeb Ogunneye were not included in United’s travelling party, Ajayi and Olusesi took part in Spurs’ final training session, increasing the likelihood of making the bench for the final. Both youngsters are tipped as future stars and could join the ranks of Nigerian players who have lifted the Europa League, including Victor Moses and Obi Mikel.

Ajayi, 19, born in London, is a dynamic forward who has already made ten first-team squad appearances this season. He gained attention by scoring just minutes into his senior debut during a 3–0 win over Elfsborg. His impressive progress, including playing key roles in Spurs’ academy success, earned him a professional contract in early 2024.

Olusesi, 18, born in Lambeth, is a gifted midfielder praised for his tactical awareness and versatility across midfield roles. With 23 senior squad call-ups already under his belt, he debuted in the final moments of a dramatic 3–2 win over Hoffenheim. His leadership is well-recognised, having captained Tottenham in both the FA Youth Cup and Premier League 2.

Both players now stand on the brink of continental glory — and a major career milestone.

Editorial

We often talk about the future of Nigerian football as if it’s a distant hope — but tonight, it’s right before our eyes. In Damola Ajayi and Callum Olusesi, we see two teenagers whose presence in a European final is not only testament to their talent, but also a symbol of what the Nigerian diaspora continues to offer the global game.

We believe the Nigerian football community must begin to intentionally nurture relationships with such prospects early. Their development in elite academies abroad does not diminish their Nigerian identity it enhances the technical and mental maturity they can bring to the Super Eagles.

The significance of Ajayi and Olusesi’s inclusion in Tottenham’s Europa League final squad goes beyond minutes on the pitch. It represents trust in youth, faith in potential, and the readiness of elite clubs to take calculated risks on players with promise. If Spurs can place such confidence in them, Nigeria should not hesitate.

As football evolves, so must our strategy for securing and integrating talent. These players do not need convincing of their roots—they need assurance that choosing Nigeria is not a risk, but a proud and rewarding path.

Let’s not wait until they’ve pledged their futures elsewhere. Let’s act with purpose, so when the next Olusesi or Ajayi breaks through, he’s already wearing green and white in his heart and on his chest.

Did You Know?

1. Damola Ajayi is eligible to represent both Nigeria and England at international level, having yet to commit to either side.
2. Callum Olusesi is among the youngest captains in Tottenham’s academy history, having worn the armband in multiple age groups.
3. Tottenham Hotspur’s academy has produced several Europa League participants, including Harry Kane and Ryan Mason.
4. The San Mames Stadium in Bilbao, where the final is taking place, has a seating capacity of over 53,000 and is home to Athletic Club.
5. Nigerian midfielder John Obi Mikel won the Europa League with Chelsea in 2013, featuring prominently throughout the campaign.