SPORTS
I CAN’T WAIT FOR EAGLES DEBUT – OKONKWO
Newly eligible Nigerian goalkeeper Arthur Okonkwo says he is eager to make his debut for the Super Eagles following FIFA’s approval of his international switch from England.
The Wrexham goalkeeper, who was born in Camden to Nigerian parents, became eligible to represent Nigeria after completing his nationality switch last month.
Okonkwo had previously represented England at the youth level, including the U-18 team, during his time at Arsenal.
Reports indicate that the goalkeeper’s decision to switch allegiance came after a meeting with Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle in London during the Unity Cup tournament in June 2025, which Nigeria won.
Speaking in a Nigeria Football Federation-branded video, the 24-year-old expressed excitement over the opportunity to represent the country.
“It’s an honour being allowed to play for your country. I am so excited, I can’t wait. To finally have the opportunity is incredible,” Okonkwo said.
The goalkeeper is expected to be considered for Nigeria’s upcoming Unity Cup fixtures later this month, as well as international friendlies against Portugal and Poland next month.
Okonkwo joins a growing list of goalkeepers competing for places in the Super Eagles squad, including Stanley Nwabali, Francis Uzoho, Maduka Okoye, Amas Obasogie, and teenage goalkeeper Ebenezer Harcourt.
The shot-stopper came through Arsenal’s youth academy before spending loan spells at Crewe Alexandra and Austrian side Sturm Graz.
He later joined Wrexham on loan in 2023 before completing a permanent move the following year.
Since arriving at the Welsh club, Okonkwo has established himself as the team’s first-choice goalkeeper, making 121 appearances and helping the club secure two promotions.
During the 2025/26 season, he featured in 44 matches across all competitions and kept 10 clean sheets as Wrexham narrowly missed out on promotion to the Premier League.
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