'I wanted to play for Nigeria' — Why David Alaba didn't represent Super Eagles

Real Madrid defender David Alaba is arguably the biggest name in Austrian football history. He is widely regarded as one of the best defenders in the modern game.

The 30-year-old is among the few most versatile players as he can be deployed as a left-back, centre-back, and in central midfield.

Born in Austria to a Yoruba father and a Philippines mother, the ex-Bayern Munich defender was eligible to feature for Nigeria, the Philippines, and Austria at the international level.

He, however, ended up pledging his national allegiance to the Austrian national team, making his debut in 2009 at the age of 16.

Speaking in an interview with the SUN, Alaba disclosed that he wanted to represent Nigeria at the international level but there was no formal approach from the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF).

“I wanted to play for Nigeria, but I must confess that there was no formal approach for me. A scout actually discussed that with me. I was excited because of my dad. He was a fan of Sunday Oliseh when Oliseh played for FC Koln. As a kid, I loved to watch Victor Agali in the jersey of Hansa Rostock.”

David Alaba is the current captain of Das Team.

He is one of the most decorated defenders in history as he made over 400 appearances for Bayern Munich, winning 27 honours including 10 Bundesliga titles and 2 UEFA Champions League titles in 2013 and 2020.

He guided Spanish giants Real Madrid to their 14th UEFA Champions League title after joining Carlo Ancelotti's side summer of 2021.

WDN