Ahead of the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup in the United States, eight Nigerian footballers pivotal at club and international levels could make significant impressions on the global stage.
Emmanuel Dennis (Blackburn Rovers, on loan from Nottingham Forest): A versatile forward with Premier League and Belgian experience, Dennis won’t feature in the tournament itself but his career trajectory exemplifies the Nigerian talent pipeline.
Samuel Chukwueze (AC Milan) A fleet-footed winger who joined Milan in 2023, Chukwueze is likely to shine if Milan qualify for the Club World Cup, bringing flair honed during his years at Villarreal .
Raphael Onyedika (Club Brugge): The combative midfielder, formerly of Midtjylland, has established himself in Belgium and could play a key role if Brugge clinches a Champions League spot .
Calvin Bassey (Fulham): A mainstay in Fulham’s defence, Bassey’s ball-carrying ability and poise at the back will be vital if Fulham qualifies via an intercontinental pathway .
William Troost‑Ekong (Al-Kholood): The Super Eagles captain brings leadership and vast tournament experience, including AFCON pedigree, potentially boosting his Saudi side’s challenge .
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Kevin Akpoguma (Hoffenheim): A dependable centre-back who recently switched allegiance to Nigeria, Akpoguma will enhance Hoffenheim’s bid if they earn qualification .
Additionally, Ademola Lookman (Atalanta) and Victor Osimhen (Galatasaray) deserve honourable mentions—even though they’re not with Club W.C.-qualifying clubs, their influence here sets a benchmark for Nigerian talent globally.
Editorial
We believe Nigerian representation at this expanded FIFA Club World Cup highlights a turning point for the country’s football identity. When players span continents from Italy and Belgium to Algeria and Saudi Arabia—it speaks to a newfound depth and global relevance in our football talent pool.
We admire how each player embodies more than individual brilliance; they carry stories of development, resilience, and international aspiration. From Troost‑Ekong’s captaincy and experience, to Chukwueze’s expressive wing play, Nigeria’s new generation personifies adaptability and readiness.
Yet this moment also demands foresight. To truly capitalise on this talent, the Nigerian Football Federation and domestic clubs must ensure structures to retain and elevate such players—through support, visibility and connection with senior national squads. Otherwise, this surge of talent risks flowing out without impact back home.
We urge all stakeholders agents, clubs, and the NFF to collaborate and create pathways that keep Nigerian stars closely tied to the Super Eagles and domestic development. Success in the Club World Cup won’t define us alone, but it should catalyse a broader mission: turning this burst of global representation into sustained national advantage.
Did You Know?
- Emmanuel Dennis began his professional journey in Ukraine with Zorya Luhansk, later shining in Belgium and England before a loan to Blackburn.
- Samuel Chukwueze made over 150 appearances for Villarreal before his move to AC Milan in 2023.
- Barely three years ago, Raphael Onyedika was playing in Denmark’s U19 leagues before joining Club Brugge in 2022.
- Calvin Bassey led all Premier League centre‑backs in Ball Carry Grade (82.9) in 2024–25, a rare feat for his position.
- Troost‑Ekong earned the 2023 AFCON Player of the Tournament award becoming the first Nigerian captain to do so.
