The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has joined a growing race to secure the international future of highly rated Chelsea youngster Landon Emenalo, who is currently eligible to represent England, United States, or Nigeria at senior level.
Born in Arizona, USA, in 2008 to a Nigerian father and American mother, Landon is the son of Michael Emenalo – former Super Eagles international and ex-Chelsea technical director. His footballing journey has taken him through Chelsea’s academy, a stint in Monaco, and back to Stamford Bridge, where he signed his first professional contract in early 2025.
While England appears to have taken the early lead; having already capped him at U15, U16 and U17 levels, reports indicate that both the US Soccer Federation and Nigeria’s NFF are actively exploring ways to convince the young midfielder to commit long-term to their respective senior teams.
At just 17, Emenalo has already made appearances in the UEFA Youth League and FA Youth Cup for Chelsea. His maturity, tactical discipline and technical sharpness have made him one of the brightest prospects in England’s youth setup.
But for Nigeria, the stakes are much higher than just adding another talented player. This is about heritage and identity. As the son of one of Nigeria’s most respected football administrators and a former national team player, Landon carries a name that resonates with fans back home.
Sources say the NFF has already made quiet overtures and is monitoring the situation closely, though there is no indication yet of formal contact with the player or his representatives.
The dilemma is familiar: players of Nigerian descent coming through elite European systems, with multiple countries vying for their loyalty. And as history has shown, early engagement is often the difference between recruitment and regret.
While Emenalo has yet to make any public declaration about his international future, whichever path he chooses will be closely watched. Not just in Nigeria, but across the footballing world.
For now, the ball is in the NFF’s court. Stay with Hot Sports Scoops for exclusive Nigerian-focused sports coverage — home and abroad