Noni Madueke chooses England over Nigeria
Noni Madueke has reportedly turned down the opportunity to play for Nigeria’s Super Eagles as he has been named in England’s UEFA Nations League squad.
The Chelsea winger has received his first senior call-up to the England national team, joining his club teammates Levi Colwill and Cole Palmer in the squad for the upcoming matches against Ireland and Finland.
Madueke, born in England to Nigerian parents, had previously represented England at youth levels. His inclusion in the senior squad likely ends any chance of him playing for Nigeria on the international stage.
England’s interim manager Lee Carsley has recognized Madueke’s recent strong performances, including a hat-trick against Wolves, which helped secure his place in the squad. Madueke’s decision to represent England is a disappointment for Nigerian fans who had hoped to see him in the Super Eagles lineup.
Another player of Nigerian descent, Eberechi Eze, who had also opted to play for England, has been included in the squad. However, Michael Olise, despite his recent move to Bayern Munich, is notably absent from the list.
Madueke now joins the ranks of other players with Nigerian heritage, such as Bukayo Saka and Eberechi Eze, who have chosen to represent the Three Lions instead of the Super Eagles. This decision marks a significant moment in his career and further solidifies his commitment to England.
