Eric Chelle Hoping To Convince Ethan Nwaneri To Switch Allegiance From England to Nigeria

In what can be described as an ambitious move, the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has set its sights on persuading Arsenal’s teenage sensation Ethan Nwaneri to switch his international allegiance from England to the Super Eagles of Nigeria.

Since making his senior debut for Arsenal in 2022, Nwaneri has shone with several impressive performances for the Gunners, and the NFF are now keen to capitalize on his dual nationality.

Born Ethan Chidiebere Nwaneri in North London to a Nigerian father of Igbo origin, Nwaneri is eligible to represent Nigeria through his parents but has since represented the Three Lions at youth level, recently starring in a 4-2 victory against Portugal on Monday.

Former Nigeria international Sam Sodje, who once watched Nwaneri play against Brentford in the Premier League, believes that convincing him to choose Nigeria over England will be difficult.

“He’s a fantastic talent, and I was very impressed with his performance. However, the English FA is also keen on keeping him, and they won’t let such a talent slip away easily. But in football, you never know.”

Nonetheless, the NFF is optimistic about their chances, given their moderate success with convincing dual-nationality players such as Ola Aina, Ademola Lookman, and Bright Osayi-Samuel to represent the Super Eagles.

According to a senior NFF board member, former Arsenal midfielder, Alex Iwobi could also play a key role in convincing Nwaneri to switch allegiance due to their supposed shared Arsenal connection.

“He’s a fantastic player, and we want him. Coach Eric Chelle first suggested we make a move for him.”

“We plan to meet with his family in London and present our vision for his international career. Alex Iwobi could also play a role in convincing him since they share an Arsenal connection. If he chooses Nigeria, he will have no trouble settling into the squad, as we have several England-born players in our ranks.”

The talented midfielder has scored eight goals in 27 appearances this season, including two in the UEFA Champions League, making him one of the youngest scorers in the competition’s knockout stage.

He is also the youngest player to appear in the top flight of English football at 15 years and 181 days old.

If Nwaneri chooses to play for Nigeria, it will be a significant coup for the Super Eagles, who want to strengthen their squad ahead of the next Africa Cup of Nations.

On the other hand, if he decides to stick with England, Nwaneri will join a star-studded list of players such as Emmanuel Adebayor, Ross Barkley, David Alaba, Eberechi Eze, and Bukayo Saka, who declined to play international football for Nigeria.

In the meantime, Nigeria’s qualification hopes for the 2026 World Cup are hanging in the balance following a 1-1 draw with Zimbabwe, who are placed 121st in the current FIFA rankings.

Because when you’re used to constantly being disappointed by your government, your national football team, and your internet connection, what’s one more thing to add to the list?

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