Top 10 Nigerian Players with the Most Premier League Appearances
Over the years, Nigerian footballers have left their mark on the English Premier League (EPL), making impressive contributions to some of the biggest clubs in England. Here’s a look at the top 10 Nigerian players with the most appearances in Premier League history.
- Shola Ameobi – 298 Appearances
Shola Ameobi in action for Nigeria. - Club: Newcastle United
- Status: Retired from active football
Ameobi was a fan favourite at Newcastle, known for his loyalty and impact during his long spell at the club.
- Kanu Nwankwo – 273 Appearances
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- Clubs: Arsenal, Portsmouth
- Status: Retired from active football
A Premier League legend, Kanu won multiple titles with Arsenal and added an FA Cup victory at Portsmouth.
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- Alex Iwobi – 261 Appearances
- Clubs: Arsenal, Everton, Fulham
- Status: Still active, currently playing for Fulham
Iwobi remains a key player in the Premier League, known for his versatility and creativity in midfield. 
- Yakubu Aiyegbeni – 252 Appearances
- Clubs: Everton, Blackburn Rovers
- Status: Retired from active football
Nicknamed “The Yak,” he was famous for his goalscoring abilities and finishing prowess. 
- John Obi Mikel – 249 Appearances
- Club: Chelsea
- Status: Retired from active football
Mikel was instrumental in Chelsea’s midfield, winning multiple trophies, including the Premier League and Champions League. -
Lampard celebrating with Mikel after he scored a rare goal against Fulham
- Joseph Yobo – 228 Appearances
- Club: Everton
- Status: Retired from active football
Yobo became a rock in Everton’s defence and served as captain of Nigeria’s national team. 
- Victor Moses – 220 Appearances
- Clubs: Wigan Athletic, Chelsea, Liverpool
- Status: Still active, currently playing for Luton Town in the Championship
Moses enjoyed success at Chelsea, especially under Antonio Conte, winning the Premier League as a wing-back. 
- Victor Anichebe – 204 Appearances
- Club: Everton
- Status: Retired from active football
Anichebe made a name for himself as a strong and physical forward during his time at Everton. 
- Wilfred Ndidi – 200 Appearances
- Club: Leicester City
- Status: Still active for Leicester City
Ndidi made his 200th Premier League appearance in Leicester’s 2-1 win over Southampton on Saturday, October 19, 2024. -
LEICESTER, ENGLAND – NOVEMBER 25: Wilfred Ndidi of Leicester City celebrates scoring the third goal during the UEFA Europa League group C match between Leicester City and Legia Warszawa at The King Power Stadium on November 25, 2021 in Leicester, United Kingdom. (Photo by Visionhaus/Getty Images)
- Kelechi Iheanacho – 196 Appearances
- Clubs: Leicester City, Manchester City
- Status: Still active, currently playing for Sevilla in Spain
Iheanacho made his mark in the Premier League with Leicester and now continues his career in La Liga.
These Nigerian players have not only made a significant impact in the Premier League but also inspired younger generations of African footballers to pursue their dreams in Europe’s top leagues.
