Arthur Okoronkwo gets FIFA greenlight to become a Super Eagle
In what has become a talking point, young Arsenal goalkeeper Arthur Okonkwo has received approval from FIFA to switch his international allegiance from England to Nigeria and become a Super Eagle.
This news, confirmed by various media outlets, means that the 22-year-old shot-stopper, currently gaining experience on loan at Wrexham, can now represent both the Super Eagles and the Olympic Eagles of Nigeria.
Okonkwo’s inclusion strengthens Nigeria’s goalkeeping options, which found new life with Stanley Nwabali’s performance at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations tournament in Ivory Coast, where the Eagles finished as runners-up.
The emergence of Stanley Nwabali during the tournament provided a boost, which will foster even more competition and depth with Okonkwo’s decision to join the Super Eagles.
If he finally receives an invitation to represent Nigeria, the Arsenal shot-stopper will join a talented pool of goalkeepers for Nigeria, which currently includes Stanley Nwabali, Francis Uzoho, Adebayo Adeleye, and Ojo Olorunleke, giving the Super Eagles more choices and flexibility in that role.
Although Okonkwo was born and raised in London and has represented England at various youth levels, he has opted to follow his Nigerian heritage, following in the footsteps of other players like Calvin Bassey, Alex Iwobi, and Ademola Lookman.
