Nigerian forward Nathan Butler Oyedeji has been nominated for two prestigious individual awards following his impressive start to the 2024-2025 season. The Arsenal academy graduate is up for both the Arsenal Goal of the Month and Premier League 2 Player of the Month awards for August 2024. Butler Oyedeji, who has played every minute of Arsenal’s development squad games this season, contributed four goals and two assists in the opening matches.
In Arsenal’s 4-2 victory over Manchester United, Butler Oyedeji scored a 37th minute goal, which has earned him a nomination for the club’s Goal of the Month award. His finish, following a pass from Myles Lewis Skelly, was one of several notable strikes shortlisted for the award, alongside efforts from Leandro Trossard, Bukayo Saka, and Kai Havertz.
In addition to his Goal of the Month nomination, Butler Oyedeji is also among the eight players shortlisted for the Premier League 2 Player of the Month award. He faces competition from players like Khayon Edwards from Arsenal, Josh Ajala from West Ham, and Jack Fletcher from Manchester United.
Ajala, a fellow Nigerian, has also enjoyed a fantastic start to the season, scoring three goals in three matches for West Ham’s development squad. His performances earned him a call up to the England U19 team.
Editorial
Nathan Butler Oyedeji’s nominations for both the Arsenal Goal of the Month and Premier League 2 Player of the Month awards highlight his talent and growing impact on the pitch. The young forward has consistently delivered impressive performances, showing that his development through the Arsenal academy is paying off. His nomination, alongside first team stars like Bukayo Saka and Leandro Trossard, reflects his potential to become a key player for the Gunners in the future.
As Nigerian football fans, it is exciting to see players like Butler Oyedeji and Josh Ajala shining on such prominent platforms. Both players are making significant strides in their careers, and their success is a testament to the quality of Nigerian football talent being developed in Europe. We hope this recognition serves as motivation for them to continue their excellent form.
The ongoing development of Nigerian players in European academies and leagues only strengthens the future of Nigerian football, with these rising stars potentially making their mark on the international stage.
Did You Know?
- Nathan Butler Oyedeji has been with Arsenal since he was a young boy, progressing through their famous Hale End Academy.
- The Premier League 2 is the top division for U23 players in England and serves as a key development platform for future first-team stars.
- Bukayo Saka, a fellow Arsenal academy graduate, has become one of the club’s most important players, having started his journey in the same system as Butler Oyedeji.
- West Ham’s Josh Ajala was once part of Chelsea’s youth academy before joining West Ham in 2023.
- Nigerian footballers have a strong tradition of success in European youth academies, with many going on to represent top clubs worldwide.
