By Nichola Walter
The international future of Felix Uduokhai, a central defender who play’s for Besiktas, is back in the spotlight. The former Augsburg star, who rose through Germany’s youth teams but never represented the senior national squad, recently made headlines with his interest in switching his international allegiance from Germany to Nigeria. Uduokhai’s openness to representing the Super Eagles has raised discussions in both countries, particularly as the final international break of 2024 approaches.
According to recent reports from OwnGoalNigeria, Uduokhai is “currently leaning toward an international allegiance switch to the Nigerian Super Eagles.” The 27-year-old, who joined the Turkish outfit Besiktas in the summer, now seems open to following in the footsteps of dual-nationality players such as Kevin Akpoguma and Maduka Okoye, both of whom chose to represent Nigeria despite eligibility to play for Germany.
Uduokhai’s potential move comes at a time when dual-eligible players have become crucial additions for the Super Eagles, with more players considering allegiance switches. This trend aligns with the strategic approach taken by the Nigerian Football Federation to bolster the team’s ranks with talent from abroad.
Besiktas Defender Open to Nigeria Switch Amid International Break
Felix Uduokhai’s journey through professional football began in Germany, where he showcased his defensive skills in the Bundesliga. Rising through Germany’s youth national teams, he represented the country at various age levels, earning recognition as a dependable defender. Despite being called up to the German senior squad in 2020 and 2021, Uduokhai never took the field in an official match, leaving his international future open.
As he settles into a starting role at Besiktas under coach Giovanni van Bronckhorst, where he has made 13 appearances this season, his interest in representing Nigeria grows stronger.
In a recent report, sharing insight on Uduokhai’s willingness to represent Nigeria, hinting at a possible commitment to the Super Eagles. “The versatile defender has made himself available for selection for the Nigerian national team,” noted the report. Uduokhai’s availability aligns with the Super Eagles’ upcoming competitive matches and the Nigerian Football Federation’s recent recruitment efforts to attract players with Nigerian roots who are eligible for dual representation.
For Uduokhai, who has not received a call-up to the German team since 2021, the Super Eagles may offer a chance to represent a senior national team on an international stage.
Nigeria’s National Team Strategy and the Growing Role of Dual-Eligible Players
The Super Eagles’ roster has increasingly featured players with dual nationality, which has become a strategic focus for Nigeria’s national team. The inclusion of European-trained talent such as Maduka Okoye and Kevin Akpoguma has already strengthened the squad, and Uduokhai’s arrival would only reinforce this trend. This strategy not only diversifies the team’s tactical options but also enhances Nigeria’s competitive edge in African and global football.
The Nigerian Football Federation continues to actively recruit dual-eligible players, recognizing that these athletes often bring extensive professional experience from top European leagues.
What Next For The super Eagles Ahead of the International Break?
With the AFCON qualifiers fast approaching, the Super Eagles are gearing up to face Benin Republic on November 14. Benin’s Franco-German coach, Gernot Rohr, has reportedly compiled a specialized squad list to face Nigeria, with the goal of qualifying Benin for AFCON for the first time since 2019. For Uduokhai, joining Nigeria at this critical time could offer him the chance to participate in high-stakes matches, possibly leading to a prominent role within the team.
As the final international break of 2024 draws near, the debate surrounding Uduokhai’s international future remains vibrant. His choice will not only impact the Super Eagles but also exemplify the growing trend of allegiance switches in international football. The decision to represent Nigeria, a country where he has familial roots, would align with the paths taken by several German-trained players now pivotal to Nigeria’s squad.
