‘I feel more Nigerian’ – Super Eagles at alert as Italy and Genoa star hints at summer visit

Italy youth international Jeff Ekhator has opened the door for a potential future switch to Nigeria following his latest comments, Afrik-Foot reports.

At just 19, Ekhator has found himself at the centre of an international decision that could shape his entire career. The young striker, who plays for Genoa CFC, is eligible to represent both Italy and Nigeria at senior level — and his latest comments have put the Nigeria Super Eagles on alert.

Born in Genoa to Nigerian parents, Ekhator grew up entirely in Italy and learned his football there. He joined Genoa’s academy at the age of eight and steadily climbed through the ranks, showing early signs of a powerful and intelligent centre-forward. Standing at 1.88 metres, he fits the profile of a modern striker; strong, mobile, and capable of leading the line.

His progress has also been recognised internationally by Italy. Ekhator has represented the country at youth level, including the Under-19s and now the Italy national under-21 team.

Yet despite his deep Italian football roots, Nigeria remains firmly in the picture. Under FIFA rules, playing for youth teams does not tie a player permanently to a country. Only a competitive senior appearance would lock Ekhator to Italy, and that has not happened yet.

Speaking about his background and identity, the teenager gave a revealing insight into his thinking.

“Both my parents are Nigerian,” Ekhator said as per Pedulla. “They speak to me in both Italian and Nigerian. I’d like to go, maybe this summer. They told me something about when they came here to work.

“We’re all happy together. When I’m with my friends, I feel more Nigerian, but otherwise, I feel more Italian. I didn’t expect this quick progression because there are other players who deserve it. I’m confident in my abilities and that I’ve made another step from the Under-19s to the Under-21s.”

Ekhator: Talent torn between Nigeria and Italy

Ekhator’s development at Genoa has been steady and impressive. During the 2022-2023 season, he scored 14 goals in 24 matches for the Under-17 team, quickly marking himself out as one to watch. The following campaign, he moved up to the Under-18s and Primavera level, scoring eight goals in just 11 games and adapting well to more tactical football.

His breakthrough came in the 2024-2025 season when he made his debut in Serie A. He featured 24 times, mostly from the bench, but still managed to score his first senior goal and register an assist.

This current season has seen further growth. Ekhator has made 26 league appearances, playing over 700 minutes and scoring three goals, already an improvement on his debut campaign.

He has also contributed in the Coppa Italia, scoring once in two matches.
His rise has also carried onto the international stage. In March 2026, he scored for Italy U21 in a 4-0 European Championship qualifying win against North Macedonia U21.

Ekhator represents a valuable option for Italy in a position where they have lacked consistency in recent years. A senior call-up could come quickly if his form continues.

However, the situation is more complex for Nigeria. The Super Eagles already boast top strikers like Victor Osimhen, Akor Adams and Paul Onuachu, meaning competition for places is intense. Still, Nigeria has a strong history of convincing dual-national players to switch allegiance, as seen with Ademola Lookman and Alex Iwobi.

Ekhator’s age is an added advantage as the Super Eagles begin to rebuild for the 2030 World Cup after failing to qualify for this year’s edition.