Nigerian Stars Set to Shine as 2025/26 Football Season Kicks Off Across Europe

As the 2025/26 European football season kicks off, a host of Nigerian stars are poised for action across the continent’s top leagues, with many looking to make strong statements both domestically and in European competitions.

Alex Iwobi & Calvin Bassey (Fulham – Premier League)

Fulham open their campaign with an away trip to Brighton & Hove Albion, and the Nigerian duo of Alex Iwobi and Calvin Bassey are expected to be central figures once again. The Cottagers narrowly missed out on European qualification last season, and manager Marco Silva will be relying on the experience of Iwobi in midfield and Bassey in defence to push for a continental slot this time around.

Ola Aina & Taiwo Awoniyi (Nottingham Forest – Premier League/Europa League)

Ola Aina and Taiwo Awoniyi are set to feature in European competition this season as Nottingham Forest embark on their UEFA Europa League journey. Aina, who recently signed a new contract, was key to Forest’s strong campaign and will be pivotal from right-back under head coach Nuno Espirito Santo.
Meanwhile, Awoniyi will be hoping to bounce back from an injury-hit season. With increased competition in attack, including last season’s top scorer Chris Wood, the striker faces a challenge to reclaim a starting spot.

Frank Onyeka (Brentford – Premier League)

After a successful loan spell in the Bundesliga with Augsburg—where he started 25 of 26 league matches—Frank Onyeka returns to Brentford looking to stake a claim in the starting XI. The Nigerian midfielder could be a key presence in Brentford’s midfield as they begin their campaign against Nottingham Forest. He continues to be linked with a potential move elsewhere.

Kelechi Iheanacho, Chidera Ejuke & Akor Adams (Sevilla – La Liga)

The trio of Kelechi Iheanacho, Chidera Ejuke, and Akor Adams had contrasting fortunes last season but are united in their desire for a fresh start at Sevilla.

• Iheanacho endured a quiet loan spell at Middlesbrough.

• Ejuke was sidelined for two months due to injury.

• Adams only recently regained full fitness after a lengthy injury layoff.
  With both Iheanacho and Ejuke reportedly seeking exits, their futures remain uncertain heading into the new La Liga season.

Chrisantus Uche (Getafe – La Liga)

Young forward Chrisantus Uche had an impressive debut season for Getafe, contributing 3 goals and 5 assists in 30 league appearances. At just 21, Uche is expected to play a key role as the club looks to climb higher in the La Liga standings.

Chidozie Awaziem (Nantes – Ligue 1)

Chidozie Awaziem returns to French football with Nantes after completing a move from Colorado Rapids in the MLS. He made 20 starts for the Rapids, providing one assist in a 3–2 win over San Diego FC. Nantes will count on his defensive solidity to maintain their Ligue 1 status.

Moses Simon (Paris FC – Ligue 1)

Moses Simon joins newly-promoted Paris FC from Nantes in a €7m deal. The Super Eagles winger was instrumental for Nantes last season with 8 goals and 10 assists, and his Ligue 1 experience could prove crucial as Paris FC aim to avoid relegation.

Maduka Okoye (Udinese – Serie A)

Maduka Okoye, Udinese’s first-choice goalkeeper, is aiming to bounce back after serving a two-month ban due to a betting scandal tied to a match against Lazio last season. The Nigerian shot-stopper will look to re-establish himself as one of Serie A’s top goalkeepers.

Ademola Lookman (Atalanta – Serie A)

Fresh off winning the 2024 CAF African Player of the Year, Ademola Lookman is currently in a standoff with Atalanta, who have blocked his desired summer exit amid strong interest from Inter Milan. The forward has yet to report for pre-season, and his future remains uncertain—but wherever he lands, expectations remain sky-high after a stellar campaign.

Victor Osimhen (Galatasaray – Super Lig)

Victor Osimhen has completed a blockbuster €75m permanent move to Galatasaray following a prolific loan spell where he scored 37 goals in 41 appearances. Now partnered with fellow signing Leroy Sané, Osimhen will lead the line as the Turkish giants look to go deep in the UEFA Champions League.

Wilfred Ndidi (Besiktas – Super Lig)

Wilfred Ndidi has joined Besiktas for €9m, bringing Premier League pedigree to Ole Gunnar Solskjær’s midfield. The Nigerian international is expected to be a key figure in the club’s domestic title challenge and European campaign.

Henry Onyekuru (Gençlerbirliği – Super Lig)

Former Super Eagles winger Henry Onyekuru signed a two-year deal with Gençlerbirliği, turning down offers from three other Turkish clubs. The 28-year-old will be hoping to reignite his career after leaving Saudi side Al-Fayha.

Semi Ajayi (Hull City – Championship)

After leaving West Brom as a free agent, Semi Ajayi has signed with Hull City, where his experience will be vital in their push for Premier League promotion.

Chuba Akpom (Ipswich Town – Championship)

Chuba Akpom joins newly-promoted Ipswich Town on a season-long loan from Ajax. The former Middlesbrough striker adds significant firepower to Kieran McKenna’s squad, who are targeting another promotion push.

With over a dozen Nigerian players competing across Europe’s top five leagues—and beyond—the 2025/26 season promises to be an exciting one for Super Eagles fans and scouts alike.