Nigeria: Arsenal Star Nwaneri Reveals Nigerian Roots As Super Eagles Spell Looms

8 February 2026
Leadership (Abuja)
By Salifu Usman

Arsenal's promising young midfielder, Ethan Nwaneri, has ignited a flurry of excitement within Nigerian football circles by publicly embracing his Nigerian heritage.

This revelation has inevitably led to widespread speculation regarding his potential future commitment to the Super Eagles, Nigeria's senior national team.

Nwaneri, currently on a season-long loan with French giants Olympique Marseille from Arsenal, has already begun to make a significant impact in Ligue 1. The 19-year-old sensation marked his debut for Les Phocéens with an impressive goal, showcasing his burgeoning talent and adaptability to a new league.

During an interview with R.org, Nwaneri was specifically questioned about his awareness of former Nigerian internationals Taye Taiwo and Wilson Oruma, both of whom previously plied their trade at the Stade Vélodrome. His response was direct and impactful: "Yes, I know. I'm Nigerian, and I am here to help the team as much as possible." This statement not only confirmed his roots but also subtly hinted at a strong sense of identity and purpose.

Keep up with the latest headlines on WhatsApp | LinkedIn

While Nwaneri has, to date, represented England at various age-group levels, he was yet to receive a call-up to England's senior national team, Three Lions. This crucial detail leaves the door wide open for the Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) to potentially court the talented teenager. With his impressive performances in France and a clear acknowledgment of his Nigerian background, the prospect of Nwaneri donning the green and white of Nigeria is now a very real and tantalising possibility for fans across the country and beyond.

Read the original article on Leadership.

Tagged:
Copyright © 2026 Leadership. All rights reserved. Distributed by AllAfrica Global Media (allAfrica.com). To contact the copyright holder directly for corrections — or for permission to republish or make other authorized use of this material, click here.

AllAfrica publishes around 500 reports a day from more than 90 news organizations and over 500 other institutions and individuals, representing a diversity of positions on every topic. We publish news and views ranging from vigorous opponents of governments to government publications and spokespersons. Publishers named above each report are responsible for their own content, which AllAfrica does not have the legal right to edit or correct.

Articles and commentaries that identify allAfrica.com as the publisher are produced or commissioned by AllAfrica. To address comments or complaints, please Contact us.