Five Nigeria-eligible youngsters to watch in the 2024/25 UEFA Champions League

Published on by Toyosi Afolayan

Nigerian players have consistently made their mark in the UEFA Champions League, from lifting the prestigious trophy to setting individual records. 

This season, however, attention shifts to the next generation, specifically those with dual nationality i.e. eligible to represent either Nigeria or another country. 

Here, we take a closer look at five Nigeria-eligible youngsters who have been registered in their clubs' main squads for Europe’s elite competition this season.

Ethan Nwaneri (Arsenal)

Ethan Nwaneri, a product of Arsenal’s Hale End academy, is hands-down the most exciting prospect on this list.

Born in Enfield, London, to Nigerian parents, the 17-year-old attacking midfielder has been registered in Arsenal’s squad for the 2024/25 UEFA Champions League. With club captain Martin Ødegaard sidelined due to a long-term injury, Nwaneri could see valuable minutes on the European stage, especially with the expanded group stage format.

Nwaneri has been highly regarded for his technical ability and creativity in the final third. Last season, he recorded an impressive 11 goals and three assists in just 15 games for Arsenal's U21s.

Five Nigeria-eligible youngsters to watch in the 2024/25 UEFA Champions League
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He has already made his Premier League debut and continues to gain valuable first-team experience. As Arsenal navigate a packed fixture schedule, Nwaneri’s versatility and form might just earn him a chance to shine on one of football’s grandest stages.

Ayodele Thomas (PSV Eindhoven)

Ayodele Thomas, a 17-year-old forward, is another promising player with Nigerian roots.

Born to a Nigerian father and a Croatian mother in the Netherlands, Thomas is part of PSV Eindhoven’s setup. While primarily a winger, he has also showcased his versatility across the front line. Having previously been part of Feyenoord’s academy, Thomas now finds himself on the fringes of PSV’s first team, occasionally training with the senior squad.

Five Nigeria-eligible youngsters to watch in the 2024/25 UEFA Champions League
Photo by IMAGO

Although yet to make his Champions League debut, his registration in PSV’s squad signifies the club’s faith in his development. Thomas remains eligible to represent both Nigeria and the Netherlands, though he currently features for the Dutch U18 side. 

This summer, he reconnected with his Nigerian heritage, spending time in Lagos and Abuja, hinting at a potential future decision regarding his international career.

Wellity Lucky-Omoruyi (Liverpool)

At 18, Wellity Lucky-Omoruyi is making significant strides in his development at Liverpool.

The Zaragoza-born defender, who also has Nigerian heritage, has been training with Liverpool’s first team while continuing to be a regular in the youth setup. A central defender by trade, Lucky is capable of playing as a right-back, making him a valuable defensive asset.

Liverpool’s head coach, Arne Slot, has shown faith in the youngster, including him in their Champions League squad.

Five Nigeria-eligible youngsters to watch in the 2024/25 UEFA Champions League
Photo by IMAGO

Lucky’s inclusion highlights the club’s belief in his potential, and with Liverpool’s propensity to rotate players during the group stages, the Nigerian-eligible defender could be handed his chance to make an impression on European nights.

Afolami Onanuga (Liverpool)

Joining Lucky in Liverpool’s setup is Afolami Onanuga, an 18-year-old box-to-box midfielder with roots in Nigeria’s Yoruba tribe. Known as “Fola,” Onanuga has been a key player in Liverpool’s youth ranks and is part of the club’s UEFA Youth League squad.

However, his inclusion in the List A registration for senior players means he could also feature for the first team if called upon.

Five Nigeria-eligible youngsters to watch in the 2024/25 UEFA Champions League
Photo by IMAGO

Having come through Liverpool’s academy, where he was scouted playing grassroots football in Manchester, Onanuga has shown maturity beyond his years.

With a packed fixture list ahead, he might be given an opportunity to impress both in domestic and European competition.

Lenny Agbaire (Celtic)

Another centre-back to watch is Lenny Agbaire, who plays for Celtic’s B team but has been registered in the Scottish club’s Champions League squad. The 19-year-old was born in Croydon, England, and also holds a Scottish passport.

However, his Nigerian roots trace back to Delta State. While yet to fully break into Celtic’s first team, Agbaire’s inclusion in the Champions League squad suggests he is on the club’s radar for future involvement.

Five Nigeria-eligible youngsters to watch in the 2024/25 UEFA Champions League
Photo by IMAGO

Agbaire has been honing his skills with Celtic B and could serve as a backup option for the senior team during the Champions League campaign.

His physicality and defensive acumen have drawn comparisons to some of the league’s top defenders, and he will be eager to prove his worth on a larger stage.

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Toyosi Afolayan

Toyosi Afolayan is a sports journalist who breathes life into the games we love. He loves to combine insightful analysis with historical background, creating a richer understanding of sports. Afolayan's expertise ranges from captivating narratives to live broadcasts, captivating audiences across platforms like Ojbsport, AllNigeriaSoccer, TVC Entertainment, Bounce Networks, Kwara TV, ICIR, EaglesTracker, and NFF TV. His background in History and International Studies adds depth, revealing the connections between sports, politics, and national identity.