Super Eagles news: 3 reasons NFF must get Manchester United boy Noah Ajayi

The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) should be keeping a close eye on Manchester United youngster Noah Ajayi, as he could be a candidate for the Super Eagles in the coming years, Afrik-Foot reports.

Last Friday, the 17-year-old winger committed his future to United by signing a long-term professional contract, a move that definitely shows the club’s belief in his potential.

In youth we trust.

Noah Ajayi has committed his future to United by signing a long-term professional contract ✍️🔴

— Manchester United (@ManUtd) September 25, 2026

Born in Hamburg to a Nigerian father and German mother, Ajayi is eligible to represent the Super Eagles despite having already featured for Germany at youth level.

For Nigeria, this is a player worth monitoring closely, and in this article, we will write on three reasons why the NFF should make him a priority and possibly get him to swith in the coming years.

1. Ajayi Has Built A Reputation At Manchester United

There is a significant difference between being another academy player at a major European club and being handed a professional contract at 17.

Manchester United confirmed that Ajayi has impressed with their Under-18 side and has also featured for the Under-21s. The club described him as a standout performer for Darren Fletcher’s Under-18 team last season.

That gives Nigeria a potentially valuable pathway to a player who is already developing within one of Europe’s most recognised academies.

The NFF would therefore be wise to establish a relationship with the youngster and his representatives before his international future becomes more complicated.

2. Nigeria Could Use Another Exciting Wide Option

Ajayi primarily operates from the left wing but can play on either flank.

That versatility could eventually make him an interesting option for the Super Eagles, particularly as Nigeria continues to develop alternatives across the attacking positions.

At 6ft 2in, Ajayi also possesses a physical profile that could complement his technical qualities as he develops.

He is still only 17, so there should be no rush to place expectations on him. However, his progression at United makes him a player the NFF should not lose sight of.

3. Germany Have An Advantage

Perhaps the biggest reason for Nigeria to act is that Germany have already shown interest.

Ajayi has represented Germany at youth level and made his competitive debut for the country’s Under-19 side in a European Championship qualifier against Bosnia and Herzegovina in March.

That appearance means he is provisionally tied to Germany under FIFA’s eligibility rules, although a future switch remains possible. This makes the situation more urgent for Nigeria.

The NFF cannot simply assume that Ajayi will eventually choose the Super Eagles because of his Nigerian heritage. Born in Germany and having spent much of his football development in England, the youngster has strong links to European football.

Nigeria’s best approach would be to make the country’s national-team project clear to him and maintain contact as his career develops.

Ajayi does not need to be rushed into the senior team. But with Manchester United now investing in his future, the NFF should make sure Nigeria is part of the conversation before another country makes the decision easier for him.