Nigeria 2-1 Iran: How Arsenal and Chelsea target fared on Super Eagles debut

Emmanuel Fernandez made a calm and confident start to life with Nigeria as the Super Eagles beat Iran 2-1 in a friendly in Antalya, Turkey, Afrik-Foot reports.

The 24-year-old Rangers defender came on at half-time to replace Semi Ajayi with Nigeria already leading 1-0. It was a testing situation for a first cap, but Fernandez looked settled from the moment he stepped onto the pitch.

He played the entire second half at centre-back and helped the Super Eagles stay organised, even after Mehdi Taremi pulled a goal back for Iran in the 67th minute. Fernandez showed good awareness, reading the game well and making important clearances when needed.

Standing at 6ft 5in, he also made his presence felt in the air, winning several duels and giving Nigeria extra security from set-pieces. His partnership with fellow defender Igoh Ogbu looked steady, especially under pressure as Iran pushed for an equaliser late on.

Just six minutes after he came on, Nigeria doubled their lead through Akor Adams. While Fernandez was not directly involved in the goal, his introduction helped the team maintain balance at the back, allowing others to push forward with confidence.

It was, overall, a strong and composed debut for Fernandez, and one that will give head coach Eric Chelle more options in defence ahead of the next game against Jordan.

Arsenal, Chelsea monitor Super Eagles new boy Fernandez

Fernandez’s performance for Nigeria comes at a time when his club future is already attracting serious attention across Europe.

Reports suggest that Arsenal and Chelsea are both monitoring the defender ahead of the summer transfer window. His rapid rise at Rangers has not gone unnoticed, with several clubs impressed by his physical strength, composure, and ability to score goals from defence.

Rangers are believed to be in a strong position. Fernandez only joined the club last summer and is under contract until 2029. That means the Scottish side can demand a high fee if any club wants to sign him.

Figures between £30m and £40m have been mentioned, which would make him the most expensive sale in Rangers’ history. That would surpass the £19.6m fee they received when Calvin Bassey moved to Ajax in 2022.

Interest is not limited to England. Clubs such as Borussia Dortmund and Bayer Leverkusen are also said to be tracking his progress, along with others across Europe.

For Arsenal, managed by Mikel Arteta, a move for Fernandez would add depth to an already strong defence. However, questions remain about whether they need another centre-back, given their current options.

Chelsea, meanwhile, are known to be looking at young defenders with potential, and Fernandez fits that profile.

His debut for Nigeria will only add to the growing belief that he is ready for a bigger stage. If he continues to perform at this level, both for club and country, his value is likely to rise even further before the summer window opens.