Awoniyi, Chukwueze, others eye revival in new campaign

A number of prominent Nigerian footballers plying their trade internationally are aiming for a resurgence in the new season after a 2025/26 campaign that proved difficult for many. Injuries, loan moves, and inconsistent performances hampered the progress of several of the nation's top talents abroad.

Taiwo Awoniyi endured one of his most challenging seasons at Nottingham Forest, managing only one Premier League goal in 26 appearances. His market value reportedly dropped from €16 million to €8 million, a stark contrast to his peak valuation of €30 million in October 2023. With limited league minutes, Awoniyi will be eager to fight for his starting position in the upcoming season.

Samuel Chukwueze also experienced a mixed season following his loan move from AC Milan to Fulham. Despite contributing three goals and four assists in 20 Premier League games, Fulham opted not to make the transfer permanent, returning him to Serie A. Meanwhile, Ademola Lookman's statistics declined significantly from his stellar 2024/25 season, where he won the Europa League with Atalanta and was named CAF Player of the Year. After a proposed move to Inter Milan fell through, he transferred to Atletico Madrid for approximately €40 million in February 2026, seeking a fresh start.

Other Nigerian players are also looking for renewed success. Chidera Ejuke had limited starting opportunities at Sevilla, contributing one goal and one assist in 27 appearances. Gift Orban has joined Turkish side Amedspor on loan from Hoffenheim, hoping to reignite his career after scoring seven goals for Hellas Verona last season. Tolu Arokodare, who was a top scorer in Belgium with Genk, saw his Wolves team relegated, and he will aim to rediscover his scoring touch. Joe Aribo also faced a difficult spell, struggling for game time at Southampton before a loan move to Leicester City, which ended in relegation.