Nigeria pulls ahead of England in the race for Micah Olabiyi

Nigeria may have found a new ace in its bid to convince young dual nationals to represent the Super Eagles. At just 16, Micah Olabiyi, one of Wycombe Wanderers' brightest prospects, has admitted that his recent stint with the Nigerian national team has deeply influenced his thinking about his international future.

Micah Olabiyi is attracted by the idea of playing for Nigeria. Invited to train with the Super Eagles ahead of the Unity Cup fixtures in London, the young forward had the chance to rub shoulders with several of the Nigerian squad's established stars. This experience, shared with seasoned internationals, led him to seriously consider the possibility of donning the Nigerian shirt, even though he remains eligible for England.

This development is welcome news for the Nigerian Football Federation, which has spent years trying to attract the best talents from the diaspora.

An emerging talent turning heads

A product of the Wycombe Wanderers academy, Micah Olabiyi has already made his mark with the first team. On May 2, 2026, he came off the bench to score the winning goal for his side, becoming at 16 the second youngest goalscorer in the club’s history. The feat earned him a commemorative plaque from Wycombe Wanderers in recognition of his impressive debut.

Before joining Wycombe, the young prodigy also spent time at the academies of Tottenham Hotspur and Crystal Palace.

Nigeria determined to avoid another Saka scenario

The Olabiyi case is part of the ongoing tug-of-war between Nigeria and England over dual-national players. The Super Eagles have already seen several talents, notably Bukayo Saka, Tammy Abraham, and Eberechi Eze, opt to wear the England shirt.

This time, Nigerian officials are hoping that the senior team immersion offered to Micah Olabiyi will help tip the scales in their favor.

At just 16, the forward is already considered one of the most promising young talents of his generation. His international decision will be closely followed in the coming months.

Nouya M'toama

Editorfr, en

Versatile journalist specializing in sports and political news, with extensive experience across radio, print and digital media platforms.