The battle for Ethan Nwaneri’s international future is heating up, with Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle expressing both hope and concern over Nigeria’s chances.

The Arsenal prodigy, who has dazzled at youth level, remains eligible for the Super Eagles, but England holds the upper hand, Footballrover reports.

Can Chelle sway him before it’s too late?

England or Nigeria? The tug-of-war for Ethan Nwaneri

Born in North London, Nwaneri has the option to represent Nigeria through his father, Obi Nwaneri.

Despite not ruling out the Super Eagles, the 18-year-old has yet to receive a formal approach from the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF).

Meanwhile, England, which recently promoted him to its U21 squad, appears to be leading the race.

Nwaneri, who recently scored his first England U21 goal in his first start, means he is provisionally tied to England.

To switch, he would need to file a one-time request with FIFA—something that requires serious consideration.

With eight goals in 29 appearances across all competitions this season, his rapid rise has caught the attention of England’s new boss, Thomas Tuchel.

Chelle’s plan to convince the Arsenal wonderkid

Speaking about the situation, the Super Eagles coach Chelle acknowledged the difficulty of securing Nwaneri’s commitment but remains optimistic.

“During my trip to England, I said I would want Nwaneri to play for Nigeria. I want the NFF to talk to him, and then I will also speak with him,” Chelle said as quoted by SCORENigeria.

“It will be hard because England will also want to cap him at full international level. But I believe I can convince him because I will speak to him on the game project and where he fits in after the NFF must have got in touch with him,” Chelle added.

Recall that Nigeria has lost similar battles before, with Bukayo Saka, Tammy Abraham, and Fikayo Tomori opting for England.

However, Alex Iwobi and Ola Aina made the switch after realising their senior team chances with England were slim.

Will Nwaneri follow their path, or will Chelle’s pitch change his mind?

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Last Updated on April 1, 2025 12:11 pm by Sir Kris