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Ecclesiastes 3:1 states, “To everything there is a season, and a time to every purpose under heaven.”
The new European football season is here, and again Nigeria talents are primed to make headlines across the leagues – from powerhouse clubs in England and Germany to emerging stars in France, Turkey, and beyond.
Here are some Nigerian players you’ll want to follow closely during the 2025/26.
Only a few players embody their clubs’ heartbeat more than Alex Iwobi. The Fulham midfielder was at the core of almost everything positive for the Cottagers last term, registering nine goals and six assists. His creativity, ball retention, and ability to dictate the game’s rhythm made him indispensable, and he remains the Nigerian with the most Premier League minutes, a testament to his consistency and reliability.
Still at Craven Cottage, Calvin Bassey continues to impress with his adaptability. Whether deployed as a centre-back or on the left side of defence, Bassey’s pace, strength, and reading of the game make him a pillar in Fulham’s back line. His defensive solidity complements Iwobi’s creativity, forming a strong Nigerian axis in Marco Silva’s squad.
In Turkey, all eyes are on Victor Osimhen, who completed a sensational €75 million transfer to Galatasaray on 31 July 2025 – the most expensive signing in Turkish football history. The striker penned a four-year deal, and the move signals not just ambition from the club, but a perfect platform for Osimhen to continue towing the part towards greatness, while redefining the Süper Lig’s attacking standards.
Another major Nigerian arrival in the Turkish Süper Lig is Wilfred Ndidi, who joined Be?ikta? from Leicester City on 7 August 2025 for around €9.5 million. Signing a three-year deal with an option for a fourth, Ndidi brings elite ball-winning ability and midfield coverage. He might not be the fastest but his tactical intelligence will be invaluable for Be?ikta? as they aim for domestic and European success.
Taiwo Awoniyi remains Nottingham Forest’s battering ram in attack, a physical, tenacious forward who thrives in the penalty area. Injuries have occasionally disrupted his momentum, but when fit, his presence terrifies defenders. Alongside him is Ola Aina, a versatile full-back capable on either flank. Aina’s energy, defensive awareness, and tactical flexibility earned him a new contract running through 2028, a reward for quality and evidence of his long-term value to Forest’s ambitions.
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In the Premier League’s midfield battles, Frank Onyeka continues to be Brentford’s tireless engine. Onyeka spent part of last season in Germany but is back at the Gtech Community Stadium ready to win over the home fans. His drive could be crucial for Brentford in navigating another challenging top-flight campaign.
Belgium’s Pro League will again have an eye on Tolu Arokodare, the towering KRC Genk striker who netted 21 goals last season, earning the Ebony Shoe as the best African player in Belgium and a spot in the Team of the Season. His combination of aerial presence, composure, and movement makes him one of the league’s most feared forwards, provided he stays injury-free. Meanwhile, Umar Sadiq returns to Real Sociedad after a loan spell at Valencia, with expectations high that his blend of height, strength, and link-up play will be a consistent attacking threat.
In Italy, Fisayo Dele-Bashiru is quietly becoming an important creative hub for Lazio, bridging midfield and attack with vision and confidence. Further north, Maduka Okoye remains Udinese’s dependable shot-stopper, having kept nine clean sheets last season. Although sidelined by a two-month suspension, his return is anticipated to bring much-needed stability to the Friulian defence.
Germany boasts two standout Nigerian attackers in Victor Boniface and Nathan Tella, both at Bayer Leverkusen. Boniface has cemented his reputation as one of Europe’s most complete strikers with his pressing, hold-up play, and finishing, while Tella’s blistering pace and intelligent positioning make him a constant menace from the wings. Over in France, Terem Moffi continues to be one of Ligue 1’s most consistent scorers, while Moses Simon, newly signed by Paris FC for around €7 million, promises to be the club’s creative spark in their debut top-flight season.
Finally, Turkey’s Trabzonspor have secured Paul Onuachu on a permanent deal after a prolific loan, where his aerial dominance and sharp finishing proved invaluable. Belgium’s Raphael Onyedika keeps dictating play from deep for Club Brugge, while in Germany, Jordan Torunarigha’s move to newly promoted Hamburger SV on 1 July 2025 marks a fresh chapter for the ball-playing centre-back, one that could further solidify his place in the Super Eagles setup. Also, Samuel Chukwueze and Ademola Lookman remain key figures to watch, regardless of whether they continue with their current clubs or make a last-minute move elsewhere.
Undoubtedly, there will be players not listed here who will emerge during the 2025/26 season, delivering standout performances in Europe and beyond, further enhancing the reputation of the Power of Naija.
