Leicester City Fullback Olabade Aluko Chooses Nigeria Over England

Leicester City fullback Olabade Aluko has officially committed his international future to Nigeria over England, despite being eligible to represent both nations. The 18 year old defender, born in 2006, has expressed his openness to joining Nigeria’s U20 team Flying Eagles ahead of the 2025 Africa U20 Cup of Nations AFCON.

Although Aluko and his representatives have not yet been approached by the Nigeria Football Federation NFF, he remains eager to don the Super Eagles’ green and white in the near future.

Aluko was recruited by Leicester City at the U15 level, after impressing scouts during the UK Football Trials camp in 2021. Initially a central defender and right wingback, he has since transitioned into a versatile fullback capable of playing on both flanks.

Having already made his debut in the U18 Premier League, Aluko is regarded as an athletic and dynamic right-back with strong technical abilities. He has also gained valuable first-team exposure, playing against Northampton Town and Notts County in the EFL Trophy this season.

Editorial

Olabade Aluko’s decision to represent Nigeria over England is a massive boost for the country’s youth football program. In recent years, Nigeria has struggled to retain top dual-national players, with many opting to play for European nations due to better developmental pathways and international exposure. However, Aluko’s commitment signals a positive shift in perception towards Nigerian football.

We believe the Nigeria Football Federation NFF must act swiftly to secure his integration into the national setup. Given that England’s FA has a strong record of convincing dual nationals, Nigeria must engage Aluko early and offer him meaningful opportunities to solidify his commitment.

Aluko’s versatility as a fullback is another reason why the Flying Eagles and Super Eagles should monitor his progress closely. With Nigeria’s senior team historically struggling for depth in the fullback positions, grooming young, technically gifted defenders like Aluko should be a priority.

Beyond Aluko, Nigeria should continue to proactively scout and engage dual-national players, particularly those in top European academies. Many promising youngsters of Nigerian descent are emerging in England, Germany, and the Netherlands, and ensuring they feel valued and included in Nigeria’s football vision will be key to future success.

If nurtured properly, Aluko could become an integral part of Nigeria’s defense for years to come. This is not just a win for the Flying Eagles it is a long-term victory for the Super Eagles as well.

Did You Know?

1. Olabade Aluko was scouted by Leicester City during a UK Football Trials event in 2021, showing how talent identification programs are crucial for young players.
2. He started his career as a centre-back before being converted into a modern fullback capable of attacking and defending.
3. Nigeria has lost several dual-national players to England, including Fikayo Tomori and Tammy Abraham, both of whom played for England’s youth teams before choosing the Three Lions over Nigeria.
4. Leicester City has a strong record of developing young talents, with players like Ben Chilwell, Luke Thomas, and Wilfred Ndidi emerging from their system.
5. The Flying Eagles have won the Africa U20 Cup of Nations seven times, making them one of the most dominant youth teams on the continent.