Noah Atubolu: Why Bundesliga star might dump Germany and switch to Nigeria’s Super Eagles

Freiburg goalkeeper Noah Atubolu could still switch his international allegiance to the Super Eagles, according to Afrik-Foot.

​The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has been monitoring Atubolu for years. Born in Germany to Nigerian parents, the 23-year-old is eligible to represent both nations.

However, the shot-stopper has spent his developmental years within the German DFB setup, representing Germany at the U-17, U-19, U-20, and U-21 levels.

​Nigeria’s hopes of securing his services suffered a blow last year when he received his maiden call-up to the German senior national team.

The invitation came following injuries to several veteran goalkeepers in the squad. Ultimately, however, coach Julian Nagelsmann did not hand him any minutes on the pitch.

​Despite Atubolu’s consistent performances for Freiburg this season, it appears Nagelsmann does not currently view him as a priority.

Last week, Germany announced their squad for the final international break of the season, and Atubolu was a notable omission. Instead, Nagelsmann opted for Oliver Baumann, Alexander Nübel, and Jonas Urbig.

​Germany is scheduled to face Switzerland, Ghana, and Finland in three friendlies over the next eight days.

​Noah Atubolu: Could the German Snub Open the Door for Nigeria?

​The recent snub suggests that Noah Atubolu is not currently at the forefront of Julian Nagelsmann’s plans.

Since this is the final squad list before the World Cup squads are released at the end of the season, major changes are unlikely unless there are fresh injuries.

​If Atubolu continues to struggle to get into the German setup, there is a serious possibility that he might reconsider Nigeria’s long-standing interest—provided he is assured of regular playing time.

​Because he has yet to make a competitive senior appearance for Die Mannschaft, he remains fully eligible to represent Nigeria under FIFA’s international eligibility rules.

​Atubolu would be a very good addition to the Super Eagles squad. Known for his shot-stopping ability and composure on the ball, his skill set would be a top asset under coach Eric Chelle’s tactical system, where building play from the back is a key weapon.