Friday, March 14, 2025, marks a pivotal day for football administrators in Nigeria and fans of the beautiful game in England. Thomas Tuchel, the newly appointed head coach of England’s Three Lions, is set to announce his first squad list, and all eyes are on whether Arsenal’s rising star, Ethan Nwaneri, will make the cut.
The 17-year-old winger, who has been a revelation for Arsenal this season, finds himself at the center of an international tug-of-war between England and Nigeria. Born in England to Nigerian parents from Imo State, Nwaneri is eligible to represent both nations. While he has already featured for England at the Under-15 and Under-16 levels, Nigeria is making a strong push to secure his allegiance.
The National Sports Commission (NSC), in collaboration with the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), has reportedly initiated efforts to convince Nwaneri to pledge his future to the Super Eagles. This move comes amid growing calls from English pundits for the youngster to be fast-tracked into the senior England squad, given his exceptional talent and impressive performances.
Nwaneri, who made his Premier League debut at just 15, has enjoyed a breakout season with Arsenal, scoring eight goals across all competitions. His highlights include a brace against Bolton Wanderers in the EFL Cup, a stunning stoppage-time winner against Manchester City in the Premier League, and his first UEFA Champions League goal in a 2-1 victory over Girona.
The debate over his international future has divided opinions. Some Nigerians are hopeful that Nwaneri will follow in the footsteps of Ademola Lookman, who chose Nigeria over England and has since become the reigning African Footballer of the Year. Others, however, fear he may emulate Bukayo Saka, another Arsenal star who opted to represent England despite his Nigerian heritage.
As the football world awaits Tuchel’s squad announcement, the question remains: Will Ethan Nwaneri choose the Three Lions or the Super Eagles? For now, the stars stand still, and the decision rests in the hands of the young prodigy.
