Who will move first? Nwaneri open to Nigeria or England call-up

Ethan Nwaneri Leaves International Future Open Amid Nigeria-England Tug-of-War

Arsenal’s rising star, Ethan Nwaneri, remains undecided on his international allegiance, as reports suggest he is open to representing either Nigeria or England.

Born to a Nigerian father and an English mother, the 17-year-old midfielder is eligible for both nations. According to UK-based Nigerian journalist Shina Oludare, Nwaneri will play for the first country that officially approaches him.

“A family source close to Arsenal star Ethan Nwaneri tells me that the youngster will honour whichever country—Nigeria or England—approaches him first. What is the NFF waiting for?” Oludare posted on X.

Nwaneri has already featured for England at the youth level, but if the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) acts swiftly, he could follow in the footsteps of players like Alex Iwobi, William Troost-Ekong, Ola Aina, Calvin Bassey, and reigning African Player of the Year, Ademola Lookman, who all switched allegiance to Nigeria.

The talented attacking midfielder has been making waves for Arsenal in the 2024/25 season, stepping up in Bukayo Saka’s absence. He made history on Tuesday by becoming the third-youngest player to score in a Champions League knockout stage match, netting in Arsenal’s 7-1 thrashing of PSV Eindhoven at 17 years and 348 days.

Nwaneri also set a Premier League record in February, becoming the youngest player to complete five or more dribbles and provide an assist in a single match during Arsenal’s 2-0 win over Leicester City. At 17 years and 331 days, he broke a record previously held by Saka.

Having joined Arsenal’s academy at the age of eight, Nwaneri has scored eight goals in 27 appearances across all competitions this season. His international future remains a hot topic, with both Nigeria and England closely monitoring the prodigious talent.