The 2024/25 football season has seen a whole host of young Nigerian talent making waves across Europe. From breaking into their sides to becoming consistent starters, these young stars are not only turning heads but also shaping the future of Nigerian football.
Let’s look at the best-rated Nigerian youngsters who have emerged as ones to watch throughout the season.
George Ilenikhena
Ilenikhena made waves when he netted 14 goals in just 50 appearances for Royal Antwerp at the age of 17 last season, earning the striker a move to AS Monaco ahead of the 2024/25 season, and he has shown glimpses of huge potential.
The striker has suffered an injury-hit campaign, limiting him to just six goals in all competitions, but that includes goals against established European teams such as Benfica and Barcelona, showing the level that the forward may reach as he progresses towards his potential.
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Daniel Daga
Daga is more of a recent breakthrough, with the midfielder only transferring to Molde in January this year, and while he is yet to become a consistent starter at his new side, he has certainly shown glimpses of an extremely talented player.
Daga has been particularly impressive in substitute appearances in the Conference League, including winning three duels, making two clearances, completing one tackle as well as scoring a penalty shootout goal as Molde progressed past Shamrock Rovers on penalties in the knockout play-off round.
At just 18-years-old, Daga has plenty of time to become a regular starter for his side, and we envision great things to come from the midfielder.
Vince Osuji
Osuji is another teenager making headlines during the 2024/25 season, showcasing his talents at Kalmar FF before earning a January move to Club Brugge.
Although he has yet to debut for the Belgian’s senior side, the young defender has been a standout performer for their Under-23 side in the second division. Across seven appearances, Osuji has impressed with 1.6 tackles, 3.7 ball recoveries and 5.3 clearances per game, underlining his potential as a future superstar in central defence.
Rafiu Durosinmi
Durosinmi, in his third season for Viktoria Plzen, is enjoying yet another strong campaign for the Czech Republic side, scoring eight goals with four assists in 18 appearances across all competitions.
That includes a goal and assist against Lazio in a devastating 3-2 aggregate defeat in the Europa League round of 16, while he has also been a key part in helping his side to currently sit second in the league table.
Standing at 6’4”, the striker has a formidable presence in aerial battles, while a burst of pace and ability on the ball means he can be a frightening opponent for any level of opposition – all attributes that could see the striker become a Super Eagles star in the future.
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Christantus Uche
Uche is the final player on this list, and arguably the best of them all, with the attacking midfielder recording a wonderful debut season for Getafe in the top flight of Spanish football.
Uche was signed from third division side AD Ceuta after an eye-catching 2023/24 campaign, and he has transferred his talents seamlessly into La Liga this term, contributing three goals and five assists in 30 league appearances.
Uche sits amongst the top 14% of all midfielders for assists per 90 minutes in La Liga, while he also ranks highly for successful dribbles, touches and fouls won per game. The midfielder is not only an attacking presence, however, with Uche ranking amongst the top 14% for tackles won, duels won, recoveries and recoveries in the final third per match – all signs of a future superstar.
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