International footballers switching allegiances is nothing new, but with major tournaments on the horizon, 2025 is expected to bring a wave of nationality changes.
Here are nine top players who could represent one of the countries on the African continent this year.
1. Jacob Murphy (England → Nigeria/Ireland)
The Newcastle winger has been in top form, assisting the winner in the EFL Cup final against Liverpool and ranking among the top assist providers in the Premier League. Despite this, Murphy has never played senior international football. With England’s abundance of talent on the wings, he may look to his Irish or Nigerian heritage for an opportunity. While he reportedly declined Nigeria’s approach, history suggests players can change their minds.
2. Callum Hudson-Odoi (England → Ghana)
Hudson-Odoi has enjoyed a strong season, scoring decisive goals against Liverpool and Manchester City. Despite this, he remains overlooked for the England squad. Born to Ghanaian parents, he might follow in the footsteps of his friend Ola Aina, who switched from England to Nigeria.
3. Lesley Ugochukwu (France → Nigeria)
The Chelsea midfielder has played for France at youth levels but has yet to break into the senior team. With France’s midfield stacked, Nigeria has reportedly reached out. While Ugochukwu is only 20 and may hold out for a France call-up, he faces tough competition for a spot.
4. Carney Chukwuemeka (England → Nigeria/Austria)
Despite representing England at youth levels, Chukwuemeka struggles to break into the senior team. Given England’s abundance of attacking midfielders, he might opt for Nigeria (through his parents) or Austria (his birthplace). Nigeria has already made an approach.
5. Fikayo Tomori (England → Nigeria/Canada)
Despite playing for England’s youth and senior teams, Tomori has been overlooked recently. Under FIFA’s new rules, he could still switch to Nigeria or Canada. Nigeria would offer him an immediate AFCON appearance, while Canada could guarantee him a 2026 World Cup spot.
6. Issa Diop (France → Senegal/Morocco)
At 28, Diop has likely missed his chance with France. With his father from Senegal and his mother from Morocco, he has two strong national teams to choose from. A switch could give him the opportunity to play at AFCON or the World Cup.
7. Trevoh Chalobah (England → Sierra Leone)
The Chelsea defender has little chance of breaking into England’s senior team. However, he could represent Sierra Leone, his country of birth, and help them qualify for the 2026 World Cup.
8. Aaron Wan-Bissaka (England → DR Congo)
Despite being one of the top full-backs in England, Wan-Bissaka has been repeatedly snubbed. With no clear path into the Three Lions setup, he could switch to the Democratic Republic of Congo, giving him the opportunity to play in major tournaments like AFCON.
9. Tosin Adarabioyo (England → Nigeria)
Born in London and a former England youth player, Adarabioyo faces a tough road to the Three Lions squad. Nigeria, however, could offer him an immediate opportunity, potentially replacing William Troost-Ekong, who is expected to retire soon.
Conclusion
As international tournaments approach, many players will weigh their options carefully. Whether for better chances of playing time or personal connections, nationality switches could shake up the footballing landscape in 2025. Who do you think will switch next?
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