Nigeria may not be participating at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, but players with Nigerian roots will still have a significant presence across the tournament. Some players of Nigerian descent are expected to represent eight different countries, highlighting the global impact of Nigerian football heritage.
England
England’s squad includes three players of Nigerian descent:
- Bukayo Saka
- Eberechi Eze
- Noni Madueke
All three have become important members of the Three Lions setup and will be hoping to help England challenge for the World Cup title.
France
France will be represented by one of Europe’s most exciting young talents:
- Michael Olise
The creative attacker has enjoyed a rapid rise in recent years and is expected to play a key role for Les Bleus.
Germany
Germany’s squad features two players with Nigerian heritage:
- Jamal Musiala
- Felix Nmecha
Both midfielders have established themselves at the highest level of European football and bring quality and versatility to the German side.
Austria
Austria’s Nigerian connection includes:
- David Alaba
- Carney Chukwuemeka
Alaba remains one of the country’s most influential players, while Chukwuemeka adds youthful energy and creativity to the squad.
Switzerland
Switzerland will have two players of Nigerian descent in their ranks:
- Manuel Akanji
- Noah Okafor
The pair have become regulars for the Swiss national team and are expected to feature prominently during the tournament.
Canada
Co-host nation Canada will look to:
- Tani Oluwaseyi
- Promise David
Both players have emerged as exciting attacking options and represent the growing influence of Nigerian heritage within Canadian football.
United States
The United States will rely on:
- Folarin Balogun
The striker is expected to be one of America’s main attacking threats on home soil.
South Africa
South Africa’s squad includes:
- Ime Okon
The talented defender is regarded as one of the country’s promising young prospects and will have the opportunity to showcase his abilities on football’s biggest stage.
A Strong Nigerian Presence Despite Super Eagles Absence
While Nigerian supporters would have preferred to see the Super Eagles competing in North America, the presence of so many players of Nigerian descent ensures that the country’s football influence will still be felt throughout the tournament.
From Bukayo Saka and Michael Olise to Jamal Musiala and Folarin Balogun, Nigerian heritage will be represented across some of the strongest teams at the World Cup, underlining the depth of talent connected to Africa’s most populous nation.