Okonkwo eager to make Super Eagles debut after FIFA approval

Wrexham goalkeeper Arthur Okonkwo has expressed his excitement after receiving clearance to represent the Nigeria national football team.

World football governing body FIFA officially confirmed Okonkwo’s switch of international allegiance from England national football team to Nigeria, making him eligible to feature for the Super Eagles.

The approval was recorded on FIFA’s Change of Association platform on April 6, 2026.

Okonkwo represented England at youth level between 2015 and 2019, featuring for the U15, U16, U17 and U18 sides. However, he never played for the senior Three Lions team, allowing him to switch allegiance under FIFA eligibility regulations.

The 24-year-old is expected to be included in Nigeria’s squad for this month’s Unity Cup in London.

Speaking on NFF TV, Okonkwo described the opportunity to represent Nigeria as a dream come true.

“It’s an honour to being given the opportunity to play for your country, I’m excited I can’t wait,” Okonkwo said.

Read Also: Nigeria in talks with Arthur Okonkwo over international switch

“I’ve been wanting this moment for quite a while now and to finally have the opportunity is incredible.”

Born in Camden, London, to Nigerian parents, Okonkwo began his football journey at Hampstead Academy before joining Lindus Park and later entering the Arsenal academy at the age of eight in 2009.

The goalkeeper progressed rapidly through Arsenal’s youth system, featuring for the club’s U18 and U23 teams before signing a senior contract in July 2021.

Okonkwo made his senior debut for Arsenal in a pre-season friendly against Hibernian on July 13, 2021.

He eventually left Arsenal on June 30, 2024, following the expiration of his contract.

The post Okonkwo eager to make Super Eagles debut after FIFA approval appeared first on Sporting Life.