Amid the Super Eagles' recent struggles on the pitch, reinforcements could be on the way ahead of must-win international games.
With Nigeria’s 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign hanging in the balance, the squad could receive new players soon.
Six foreign-born players, many of whom have represented other countries at the youth levels, are now reportedly willing to commit their international futures to Nigeria, OwnGoal Nigeria has reported.
This comes amid growing optimism in the West Africans' camp as they hope to capitalise on a potential three-point deduction for group leaders South Africa, for the alleged use of an ineligible player.
Nigeria could get World Cup player boost
Despite what happens with Bafana Bafana, Nigeria’s 2026 World Cup qualifying form has been far from convincing.
After six games, the Super Eagles have won just once, drawn four, and lost one, placing them fourth in their group.
They are currently six points behind leaders South Africa, per FIFA.com, and just one behind Benin and Rwanda.
Head coach Eric Chelle, who took over the reins after Nigeria’s disappointing start, is confident of a turnaround.
With the expected three point deduction from South Africa’s 2-0 win over Lesotho, Nigeria’s chances may soon be back in their own hands.
Chelle has wasted no time in searching for new players to boost his team, identifying six dual-national players eager to wear green and white.
Five players who could switch to Nigeria
1 - Tosin Adarabioyo (Chelsea)
At the top of the list is Tosin Adarabioyo, the newly signed Chelsea centre-back, who was born in England to Nigerian parents.
He represented England at the youth levels but has never featured for the senior Three Lions, making him eligible for Nigeria.
🚨 UPDATE: Chelsea defender Tosin Adarabioyo has allegedly snubbed England to switch his international allegiance to the Nigeria Super Eagles! 🌍🦅 pic.twitter.com/GaNpDws3d7
— SportPremi (@SportPremi) September 26, 2024
Speaking at the ongoing FIFA Club World Cup, where the Blues advanced to the quarter-finals after defeating Benfica, he said:
“The World Cup means it is a decision I need to take sooner rather than later. It is a conversation we will have, and we will see how it goes.”
The defender’s physical presence, composure, and Premier League experience would be an asset for Nigeria’s shaky backline.
2 - Tino Anjorin (Empoli)
The former Chelsea and England youth midfielder is on the verge of a move to Torino but has reportedly pledged allegiance to the Super Eagles after conversations with Chelle.
Take a bow, Tino Anjorin 💫#EmpoliParma pic.twitter.com/9eJJxFoSp4
— Lega Serie A (@SerieA_EN) June 10, 2025
3 - Dapo Afolayan (St. Pauli)
The Bundesliga forward met with Chelle during the Unity Cup in London and has reportedly committed to switching national teams.
Dapo Afolayan visiting the Super eagles camp in London. pic.twitter.com/ptNPT1izt9
— Naija🇳🇬 football news origin switches and more. (@NaijascoutforSE) May 28, 2025
4 - Moritz Jenz (Wolfsburg/Mainz 05)
Although wedding plans prevented a face-to-face meeting, prior discussions were said to have been positive, and Jenz remains open to joining the squad.
🚨 Moritz Jenz can leave this summer with several clubs keen especially from Serie A.
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) May 21, 2025
Regardless of Mainz triggering the buy option or returning to Wolfsburg, he’s expected to try new chapter. pic.twitter.com/5InEeLYF75
5 - Sam Edozie (Southampton/Anderlecht)
The exciting winger, who spent last season on loan in Belgium, is also said to be ready to commit his international future to Nigeria.
Official, completed. Sam Edozie joins Southampton from Manchester City on permanent deal. 🚨 #SaintsFC #DeadlineDay pic.twitter.com/CNN0gGMNeD
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) September 1, 2022
6 - Tim Iroegbunam (Everton)
The former Aston Villa man is highly rated in England and has also apparently given his word to join the Super Eagles setup.
Everton midfielder Tim Iroegbunam has came through full first team training and is now available to be considered for team selection 🔵 pic.twitter.com/NRhEtgS98d
— The Bobble (@ElBobble) January 30, 2025
It remains to be seen how quickly any of these potential players could integrate into Nigeria's first-team structure and what impact they could have.
