Nigerian Footballers Set to Make Their Mark in the 2025/26 Season
As the 2025/26 football season kicks off, European clubs are gearing up for a thrilling campaign filled with competition for league titles, continental spots, and the fight against relegation. Among the players set to make an impact this season are several Nigerian stars who are poised to play pivotal roles for their respective teams.
Alex Iwobi and Calvin Bassey (Fulham)
The Super Eagles duo of Alex Iwobi and Calvin Bassey will be key figures as Fulham begins their Premier League journey. The Cottagers will face Brighton and Hove Albion on Saturday, marking the start of what promises to be a challenging season. Last year, Fulham narrowly missed out on European qualification, and manager Marco Silva is counting on the experience of both Iwobi and Bassey to help secure a spot on the continent next season.
Ola Aina and Taiwo Awoniyi (Nottingham Forest)
Aina and Awoniyi will be at the heart of Nottingham Forest’s European campaign in the UEFA Europa League. Aina was instrumental in the team’s impressive run last season, and with a new contract in place, head coach Nuno Espirito Santo will rely on his performances from the right full-back position. Meanwhile, Awoniyi faces a tough challenge as he looks to reclaim his starting spot after a difficult season marked by injuries and fitness issues.
Frank Onyeka (Brentford)
Frank Onyeka had a standout loan spell with Augsburg in the Bundesliga, making 25 appearances in 26 matches. Now back at Brentford, he aims to establish himself as a regular starter. His role as the team's engine room will be crucial as Brentford begins their campaign with an away match against Nottingham Forest.
Kelechi Iheanacho, Chidera Ejuke, and Akor Adams (Sevilla)
The trio of Iheanacho, Ejuke, and Adams had underwhelming campaigns last season. Iheanacho was loaned to Middlesbrough, where he had little impact, while Ejuke struggled with injuries. Adams returned to full fitness only recently after missing most of the season due to injury. All three will be looking to bounce back in the new season as they continue to be linked with potential moves from Sevilla.
Chrisantus Uche (Getafe)
Uche played a vital role in Getafe’s survival last season, scoring three goals and providing five assists in 30 games. The 21-year-old will be one of the trusted players as Getafe aims to improve their standing in LaLiga this season.
Chidozie Awaziem (Nantes)
Awaziem made a return to French Ligue 1 with Nantes after a stint in Major League Soccer with Colorado Rapids. He will be expected to contribute meaningfully as Nantes aim to maintain their top-flight status.
Moses Simon (Paris FC)
Simon completed a summer move to Paris FC for around €7m. The 29-year-old brings valuable experience from his time at Nantes, where he scored eight goals and provided 10 assists in the previous season. His knowledge of the French top-flight will be crucial as Paris FC seek to avoid relegation.
Maduka Okoye (Udinese)
Okoye, Udinese’s first-choice goalkeeper, received a two-month ban following a betting scandal. He will be looking to regain his form and prove why he is one of the top keepers in Serie A.
Ademola Lookman (Atalanta)
Lookman, the 2024 CAF Africa Player of the Year, is currently in dispute with Atalanta over a potential transfer. Despite not attending pre-season training, he remains one of the most talented players in Europe, and his performance wherever he ends up will be closely watched.
Victor Osimhen (Galatasaray)
Osimhen made a permanent move to Galatasaray for €75m after a successful loan spell. He will partner with Leroy Sane as the Turkish giants aim to make a deep run in the UEFA Champions League.
Wilfred Ndidi (Besiktas)
Ndidi joined Besiktas for around €9m, bolstering the midfield options for Ole Gunnar Solskjær. His arrival is expected to strengthen the team’s domestic and European ambitions.
Henry Onyekuru (Genclerbirligi)
Onyekuru signed with Gençlerbirliği on a two-year deal after leaving Al-Fayha in the Saudi Pro League. His experience will be valuable as the club aims to compete in the Turkish Super Lig.
Semi Ajayi (Hull City)
Ajayi moved to Hull City on a free transfer after his contract with West Bromwich Albion expired. As a key figure in the 2024 AFCON final, he will bring his experience to the Tigers as they aim for promotion to the Premier League.
Chuba Akpom (Ipswich Town)
Akpom joined Ipswich Town on a season-long loan from Ajax Amsterdam. His experience will be crucial as the club targets promotion to the Premier League.