Fulham midfielder Alex Iwobi has been named the most valuable Nigerian player in the Premier League with a market value of €25 million, according to the latest figures from Transfermarkt. This valuation, while impressive, is below his career-high valuation of €32 million. Iwobi’s stellar form this season includes five goals and three assists in 16 appearances, marking his best performance at this stage since his Premier League debut.
Nottingham Forest forward Taiwo Awoniyi follows closely with a €22 million valuation, placing him as the second most valuable Super Eagles player in England. Leicester City’s Wilfred Ndidi, valued at €18 million, ranks third but remains far from his peak valuation of €62 million. Calvin Bassey of Fulham €16 million and Nottingham Forest’s Ola Aina €14 million round out the top five.
Paul Onuachu of Southampton, despite limited appearances, holds a value of €11 million, while Emmanuel Dennis ranks lowest at €4 million. Joe Aribo, also of Southampton, is valued slightly higher at €6 million.
Editorial
Alex Iwobi’s recognition as the most valuable Nigerian player in the Premier League highlights his resurgence and consistency at Fulham. After years of fluctuating form, Iwobi has matured into a versatile and reliable performer. His ability to deliver goals assists, and dynamic midfield play underlines why he remains a critical figure for club and country.
However, the downward trend in valuations for players like Wilfred Ndidi and Emmanuel Dennis raises questions about performance and opportunities. Ndidi, once one of the most sought after defensive midfielders in Europe, has seen his value diminish due to injuries and inconsistent form. For Dennis, inactivity this season has significantly impacted his valuation, a reminder that regular playing time is crucial for maintaining a player’s market value.
On a broader scale, these valuations reflect both opportunities and challenges faced by Nigerian footballers in the Premier League. Players like Awoniyi and Bassey are steadily climbing, demonstrating Nigeria’s ability to produce top level talents. However, sustained excellence remains essential for Nigerian players to maximise their potential and achieve recognition on the global stage.
Nigeria’s football system must continue to nurture emerging stars while providing existing talents with the support they need to thrive. Iwobi’s success should inspire a new generation of players to believe in their abilities and strive for consistency. Ultimately, the goal is not just individual recognition but a stronger representation of Nigerian football in global competitions.
Did You Know?
- Alex Iwobi made his Premier League debut for Arsenal in 2015 and later moved to Everton before joining Fulham in 2023.
- Taiwo Awoniyi’s €22 million valuation follows his strong performances since joining Nottingham Forest in 2022.
- Wilfred Ndidi’s career high valuation of €62 million in 2020 made him one of the top defensive midfielders in Europe at the time.
- Calvin Bassey joined Fulham in 2023 after a successful stint at Ajax and Rangers.
- Emmanuel Dennis’ €4 million valuation reflects a significant drop from his peak due to a lack of playing opportunities this season.
