As Nigerian football gains global recognition, these players are set to make a significant impact in 2025.
Here’s a closer look at the stars to watch:
1. Ademola Lookman (Winger, Atalanta)
Ademola Lookman’s performances for Atalanta in Serie A have earned him a nomination for the prestigious African Player of the Year award.
Known for pace and creativity, Lookman was instrumental in Atalanta’s Europa League triumph last season.
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With a market value of 30 million Euro, he remains a crucial figure in Nigeria’s attacking setup and is expected to take his career to new heights.
2. Victor Osimhen (Forward, Galatasaray)
Victor Osimhen, currently on loan at Galatasaray from Napoli, continues in his rating as one of Africa’s finest strikers.
Having already notched up goals and assists this season, the 120 million Euro-rated forward is on for another groundbreaking transfer.
3. Calvin Bassey (Defender, Fulham)
Fulham’s Calvin Bassey has proven to be a dependable and versatile defender in the English Premier League.
Whether as a centre-back or full-back, his solid displays have made him a vital player for both club and country.
With a current market value of 15 million Euro, Bassey’s influence in Nigerian football continues to grow.
4. Alex Iwobi (Midfielder/Winger, Fulham)
Alex Iwobi’s creativity and versatility have been crucial for Fulham since his move from Everton.
His ability to play across the midfield and attack makes him a key player for the Super Eagles.
Iwobi’s market value stands at 18 million Euro, reflecting his importance on and off the pitch.
5. Wilfred Ndidi (Defensive Midfielder, Leicester City)
Wilfred Ndidi remains one of Europe’s most consistent defensive midfielders.
With his exceptional ball-winning skills, he played a key role in Leicester City’s push for promotion back to the English Premier League.
Valued at 25 million Euro, Ndidi continues to be a backbone for the Super Eagles’ midfield.
6. Moses Simon (Winger, FC Nantes)
Moses Simon’s speed and dribbling ability make him a standout in the French Ligue 1 for Nantes.
A vital player for both club and Nigeria, Simon’s creativity ensures he is always in demand.
His market value is currently 10 million Euro.
7. Umar Sadiq (Forward, Real Sociedad)
Umar Sadiq has been a revelation for Spanish side Real Sociedad, with his aerial prowess and goal-scoring ability proving invaluable in La Liga.
With a market value of 15 million Euro, Sadiq is set to become a more prominent figure in Nigerian football in the coming years.
8. Igoh Ogbu (Defender, Slavia Prague)
Igoh Ogbu has cemented his status as a defensive stalwart at Slavia Prague, excelling in European and domestic competitions.
The four million Euro-rated centre-back is increasingly becoming a leader in the defence.
9. Fisayo Dele-Bashiru (Midfielder, Lazio)
Fisayo Dele-Bashiru’s loan spell at Lazio in the Italian Serie A has been a breakthrough for the young midfielder.
Known for his energy and attacking contributions, Dele-Bashiru is carving out a reputation as a dynamic force.
His market value is 3.7 million Euro.
10. Gift Orban (Forward, Olympique Lyonnais)
Gift Orban continues to capture attention with his goal-scoring exploits for Olympique Lyon in the French Ligue 1.
Linked with a move to the Premier League, Orban is widely regarded as part of the future of Nigerian football.
These players represent the next generation of Nigerian talent, excelling across Europe’s toughest leagues.
With Lookman’s African Player of the Year nomination leading the charge, 2025 promises to be a monumental year for Nigerian football. NAN