The Super Eagles of Nigeria have continued to benefit from talented players who had their skills honed in Europe’s competitive football leagues. Today, at least five immensely talented Nigerian football stars are making their mark across Europe, delivering standout performances in top competitions with the intent to catch the attention of the Super Eagles’ manager.
As the senior national team continues to search for a backup for Victor Osimhen, whose shoes have proven too big for Victor Boniface to fill, some Nigerians are of the opinion that these upcoming stars should be given a chance to vie for shirts in the Super Eagles.
Youngsters like Akor Adams, Tolu Arokodare, Christanus Uche, Gabriel Osho, and the youngest of them all, Kelvin Martins, have exemplified the depth of skill and versatility available to Nigeria’s national team. Their exploits in leagues such as Ligue 1, the Belgian Pro League, and the Premier League not only highlight their readiness for international football but also underline Nigeria’s potential for global dominance in the coming years.
Already, Gabriel Osho, who was also in the queue, has since made his debut for the Super Eagles in the 2025 AFCON Qualifier against Benin Republic. Born on August 14, 1998, in Reading, England, he is a versatile defender with Nigerian heritage who currently plays for Ligue 1 club Auxerre. He began his football journey at Reading FC, progressing through their youth system and making his senior debut. After stints with clubs like Yeovil Town, Osho found a home at Luton Town, joining in 2020 and moving to Auxerre in 2024. He is yet to score a goal in eight appearances so far.
Renowned for his adaptability, Osho can operate as a center-back or defensive midfielder, making him a vital asset for Luton. His defensive intelligence and composure on the ball were instrumental in helping the club secure promotion to the Premier League via the playoffs in 2023. He exhibited these same qualities when he donned the green-white-green jersey of the Super Eagles in November.
Tolu Arokodare (KRC Genk, Belgium)
Tolu Arokodare, born in Festac Town, Lagos, is a 23-year-old Nigerian forward making waves in the Belgian Pro League with KRC Genk. His football journey began with grassroots development at Kash Academy, Flying Sports Academy, Segun Odegbami International College, and Box2Box FC. Arokodare’s professional breakthrough came in Latvia with Valmiera FC, where he excelled as a prolific goal scorer, leading to moves to FC Köln in Germany and later Amiens in France.
Renowned for his physical presence, aerial dominance, and clinical finishing, he has played a pivotal role in Genk’s pursuit of domestic success. His impressive form in the 2024 season, where he delivered crucial goals to aid Genk’s title push, has heightened speculation about his potential inclusion in Nigeria’s Super Eagles squad.
Arokodare’s blend of athleticism, goal-scoring instincts, and ability to thrive under pressure makes him one of Nigeria’s brightest striking prospects in Europe. His electrifying pace, which has seen him score nine goals in 23 appearances for Genk, has also cemented his reputation as a player ready for the international stage.
Akor Adams (Montpellier HSC, France)
Akor Adams, a dynamic 23-year-old Nigerian forward, has been a revelation for Montpellier HSC in Ligue 1. His football journey began at Jamba Academy in Nigeria before moving to Norway, where he showcased his talent at Sogndal and later Lillestrøm. In Norway, Adams cemented his reputation as a prolific goal scorer, combining his physical attributes, aerial prowess, and finishing ability to great effect.
His seamless adaptation to one of Europe’s top leagues has highlighted his blend of power, speed, and technical finesse. As a striker, he excels in holding up play, operating in tight spaces, and delivering in crucial moments, making him a pivotal figure for Montpellier, having scored nine goals in 35 appearances.
Though yet to make his senior debut for Nigeria, having played twice for the U20 side in 2019, Adams has emerged as a top candidate for the Super Eagles. His consistency and ability to lead the line suggest he could provide valuable depth alongside established stars like Victor Osimhen.
Christantus Ugonna Uche (Getafe CF, Spain)
Christantus Ugonna Uche, born on May 19, 2003, in Owerri, Nigeria, is a rising star in Spanish football. Without the benefit of a formal academy upbringing, Uche’s career began with amateur football on the streets of Owerri, showcasing his natural talent and determination. He made his professional debut in 2022
with Spanish fourth-tier side Moralo CF, where his technical skills and adaptability quickly stood out.
His versatility across defensive, midfield, and attacking roles sets him apart, catching the attention of La Liga side Getafe CF, having scored a goal in 12 appearances. While he has yet to debut for Nigeria’s senior national team, his appearances for the U23s and performances in La Liga demonstrate his potential. His journey from Owerri’s streets to Spain’s top flight is a testament to his resilience and talent.
Kevin Martins (Monza, Italy)
Kevin Maussi Martins is a professional footballer born in Italy and of Nigerian and Ghanaian descent, and he holds Italian and Nigerian citizenship. He is the son of retired Nigerian football star Obafemi Martins, who was well known for his explosive pace and goal-scoring prowess during his career in Europe and internationally for the Super Eagles.
Though his career is still developing, ‘Obagoal’ junior has shown potentials in youth football. He is eligible to represent both France and Nigeria at the international level. He began his youth career at AC Milan before switching to cross-city rivals Inter Milan’s youth setup in 2018, and in January 2023, he joined Monza’s youth team.
He made his senior debut for Monza in a Coppa Italia match against Brescia on September 26, 2024, where he provided an assist, helping his team secure a 3–1 victory. However, he has yet to score a goal in official league or cup competitions, having played only one league match so far this season.
As these rising stars continue to shine in Europe, the Super Eagles stand poised to integrate them into the national team, bolstering their competitiveness on the global stage. With their skill, determination, and hunger, this new generation could be instrumental in bringing glory to Nigeria in international football tournaments.
As the Super Eagles prepare for future competitions, including the 2025 AFCON and World Cup qualifiers, integrating these rising stars could provide the firepower needed to reclaim continental dominance and make a mark globally.
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