Premier League side Wolverhampton Wanderers have confirmed their retained and released list following the 2024–25 season, making key decisions on several players of Nigerian descent. Among them, defender Temple Ojinnaka has been offered a new contract, while fellow centre back Testimony Igbinoghene has been released.
Ojinnaka, a versatile 20 year old who can play in central defence and midfield, joined Wolves at the age of 12 after being born in Italy. Despite registration delays, he eventually broke through and featured in 10 matches across Premier League 2, the EFL Trophy, and the Premier League Cup last season. He also earned a place on the senior matchday squad as an unused substitute against Arsenal in April 2024.
Meanwhile, Igbinoghene made just one appearance in Premier League 2 during the season, signalling his limited role in the club’s future plans.
Other Nigerian linked players retained by Wolves include Tom Edozie brother of Southampton winger Sam Edozie who remains with the U24 squad, Wes Okoduwa, son of former Super Eagles striker Emmanuel Okoduwa, and Saheed Olagunju, who joined from Chelsea last year.
Editorial
Wolves’ latest round of academy decisions is a window into the future not just of their squad, but also of Nigerian football abroad. The contrasting fortunes of Temple Ojinnaka and Testimony Igbinoghene show how brutal and rewarding football development can be in equal measure.
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We’re encouraged by Ojinnaka’s progress. His journey delayed by paperwork and slow starts is now entering a promising chapter, backed by a vote of confidence from Wolves. He’s not just a central defender his ability to operate in midfield adds depth and flexibility to his game, and it’s precisely this kind of adaptability that modern football demands.
That said, Igbinoghene’s release is a stark reminder of how fleeting these opportunities can be. One season, one appearance, and a career crossroads. But let’s be clear: a release isn’t the end it’s a redirection. Many Nigerian players have gone on to shine after setbacks in elite academies.
As more Nigerian descendants emerge in Premier League academies, the responsibility also falls on Nigeria’s national team system to scout, engage, and retain them early. These players are forging identities across multiple countries. A proactive approach could ensure they see green and white as more than heritage—it becomes their football future.
Ojinnaka’s retention is not just Wolves’ win—it’s a signal to Nigerian football scouts that there’s another diamond quietly rising.
Did You Know?
- Temple Ojinnaka was born in Italy and joined Wolverhampton Wanderers at age 12.
- His senior matchday debut came as an unused substitute during Wolves’ Premier League trip to Arsenal in April 2024.
- Testimony Igbinoghene’s brother, Noah Igbinoghene, plays American football in the NFL, highlighting their family’s athletic pedigree.
- Saheed Olagunju, one of the retained players, previously trained with Chelsea’s youth academy before moving to Wolves.
- Tom Edozie, also retained, is the younger brother of Sam Edozie—who has represented England at youth level but remains eligible for Nigeria.
