Nigeria are one of African football’s powerhouse nations. They have produced some of the most talented footballers to play in Europe and the trend looks set to continue.
The Super Eagles have competed in the last three World Cups but only managed to get out of the group stage once during those tournaments. That came in 2014 in Brazil, when they reached the Round of 16, only to lose to France 2-0 in Brasilia.
Famous for their kit that took the world by storm ahead of the 2018 World Cup in Russia, Gernot Rohr has been building using a core of young players based around the likes of Wilfred Ndidi and Alex Iwobi.
Looking ahead, here are five Super Eagle players 23-years who have impressed across Europe this season based on InStat Football data:
Wilfred Ndidi
Club: Leicester City
Age: 23
Wilfred Ndidi has been exceptional for Leicester City this season. He provides energy in midfield and also puts in tackles that would make Roy Keane proud. Ndidi has made more successful tackles (151) than any player in the Premier League this season. He has also completed 41 successful dribbles and scored twice, helping Brendan Rodgers’ side finish in the top half of the Premier League.
Emmanuel Dennis
Club: Brugge
Age: 21
Emmanuel Dennis is probably a player that not everyone will have heard of, but he has had a solid season for Brugge. During the campaign, he has completed an amazing 119 successful dribbles highlighting how good he is with the ball at his feet.
His talent reportedly attracted the attention of Manchester United in 2017 and he will surely get his chance with the Super Eagles soon.
Alex Iwobi
Club: Arsenal
Age: 23
No introduction needed for this fella. Alex Iwobi is still only 23 years old and has been superb for the Gunners in Unai Emery’s first season in charge. He is a key player already for the national team and his presence is vital for the team’s success.
With the African Cup of Nations on the horizon, international football betting markets have Nigeria at 10/1 to win the competition. Iwobi’s fitness will be an important factor in any success they will have.
Samuel Kalu
Club: Bordeaux
Age: 21
Samuel Kalu is another young player impressing in one of Europe’s top five leagues. The winger has completed an astonishing 148 successful dribbles in France this season while making 34 key passes and completing 60 tackles. His all-around displays have already earnt him five international caps and he will be a mainstay in future Super Eagles squads.
Victor Osimhen
Club: Charleroi (on loan from Wolfsburg)
Age: 20
Victor Osimhen is a player Wolfsburg clearly rate highly and the 20-year-old has scored an impressive 16 goals this season while also notching four assists and contributing with 49 key passes. If his form for Les Zebres is anything to go by then he may not have to wait long for his chance in the Wolfsburg first team and add to his two international caps.
