Nigerian footballers are making serious waves across Europe, but when they return to the national team, the spark seems to fade.
Victor Osimhen topped the Serie A scoring charts in 2022/23 and played a key role in Napoli’s title win. On loan at Galatasaray this season, he’s maintained his red-hot form, netting over 35 goals and guiding the Turkish giants to a domestic double.
Ola Aina enjoyed a standout season with Nottingham Forest, making 35 appearances and proving his value with consistent performances at both fullback roles.
Meanwhile, Tolu Arokodare has taken the Belgian league by storm, scoring over 20 league goals last season and cementing his place as one of the most exciting young strikers in Europe.
With players performing at that level, Nigeria should be cruising through World Cup qualifiers. But that hasn’t been the case.
A win over Rwanda and a lackluster draw against Zimbabwe have left the Super Eagles sitting fourth in their group; six points behind the top spot.
The problem isn’t about talent. It’s about the structure.
In Europe, these players thrive in well-structured teams, under stable coaching, and with the full backing of professional setups. In contrast, the national team often feels disjointed, plagued by poor planning, tactical problems, and frequent changes in leadership.
Since Stephen Keshi, the last coach to win a trophy with Nigeria, left in 2015, the Super Eagles have made ten changes to their national team management.
For the Super Eagles to truly fly, the Nigerian Football Federation must raise its standards. That means reducing off-field distractions and building a proper football culture; one that mirrors the professionalism these players are used to at their clubs.
Until that happens, Nigeria will keep producing stars abroad while fans continue to ask why those same stars struggle to shine in green and white.
