Emmanuel Aiwu Super Eagles link explained by Agent
Agent to Cremonese defender Emanuel Aiwu has given update on links for a switch to Nigeria’s Super Eagles from Austria whom he has represented at Youth level.
According to Marcello Brillmann who represents the former Austria U-21 skipper, the Nigeria Football Federation are keeping tabs on the player who is waiting for responses front Austrian Football Authorities.
Aged 22, Aiwu has not been able to get the attention of Austria Coach Ralf Rangnick and may turn-out for his fatherland instead.
Brillmann told kicker of the Aiwu’s thought of switching his international allegiance “Contact with the ÖFB is active and I know that they think a lot of Emanuel there but I also have good contacts with Nigeria, who are very interested.
“Emanuel has played for all junior national teams in Austria and was born and raised here. We’ll see what the future brings. The upcoming transfer window is now our top priority.
“The ÖFB was informed by me after the first contact by Nigeria. There was a very good meeting with sports director Peter Schöttel, who confirmed to me again how much the ÖFB thinks of Emanuel and that they are planning with Emanuel.”
On why the decision to switch nationality is stalling, Emanuel Aiwu’s agent added ” This isn’t about stalling. We respect Nigeria as much as we respect Austria. In the end you will have to make a decision. ”
That chance with Nigeria may not come in a rush as well following comments by the Super Eagles head Coach Jose Pesiero per the invitation of new players.
Peseiro has explained his desire to stick with the current group as he prepares for the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, citing inviting new players at this time could disrupt team building.
Meanwhile, newly promoted English Premier League side Burnley are interested in signing Emanuel Aiwu from relegated Cremonese.
“That’s right. There is contact with Burnley and there has already been a meeting,” Brillmann said.
“But I can’t and don’t want to say more about this. ”
Aiwu still has three years left on his contract with Italian side Cremonese, but it’s been reported he’s keen to move on a transfer this summer following their relegation to Serie B.
A relegation clause was included in the deal that took him from Rapid Vienna last summer for a rumoured €3.5m fee.
Emanuel Aiwu played alongside Nigerian forwards Cyriel Dessers and David Okerreke last season.
