Exclusive: Super Eagles have Lookman and Osimhen, no need for Saka, says former Real Madrid coach

The Super Eagles already possess a wealth of attacking talent and do not need the services of Bukayo Saka, Eberechi Eze, or Noni Madueke, says former Nigerian midfielder Mutiu Adepoju, according to Afrik‑Foot.

Many players of Nigerian descent are currently performing at an elite level across Europe, yet a significant number of these dual‑national stars opt to represent their European nations of birth. Three prominent examples are Arsenal’s Bukayo Saka, Eberechi Eze, and Noni Madueke. Despite their Nigerian heritage, all three were born in England and chose to pledge their international allegiance to the Three Lions, even after efforts by the Nigeria Football Federation to recruit them.

Noni Madueke of Arsenal celebrates scoring with Saka. (Photo by Imago)

Eze, in particular, was reportedly close to donning the green and white before ultimately committing to England.

These players will be in the spotlight this weekend as Arsenal face PSG in the 2025/26 UEFA Champions League final, where they will look to spearhead the Gunners’ bid for a maiden UCL trophy.

Many Super Eagles fans argue that these stars would significantly bolster the Nigerian squad, especially given the inconsistency of current players in their respective positions. For instance, while Samuel Chukwueze operates on the right wing—Saka’s natural position—and Alex Iwobi features in creative midfield, some believe Eze would offer a greater impact. Similarly, Madueke plays on the left, a role typically occupied by Moses Simon.

Eberechi Eze. Photo by IMAGO

However, Former Real Madrid man and Super Eagles legend Adepoju remains unconvinced by this line of reasoning.

Mutiu Adepoju Explains Why the Super Eagles Are Fine Without the Arsenal Trio

In an exclusive interview with Afrik‑Foot, Adepoju—who earned 48 caps for the Super Eagles—discussed the trio of Saka, Eze, and Madueke.

Mutiu ADEPOJU for Nigeria. (Photo by Imago)

While the former Real Madrid B midfielder praised their technical brilliance, he noted that their presence has yet to deliver a major trophy for England. He insisted that Nigeria already have enough quality in players like Ademola Lookman and Victor Osimhen, and that it is unnecessary to wish for those who chose to represent other nations.

“I have never thought about them because they have never played for the Super Eagles, and they are not eligible to play for us,” Adepoju stated.

“Though they are Nigerians and are part of us, I have never considered them playing for Nigeria because we already have great players who are performing well for their respective clubs. They play for other countries, but those nations have not won the World Cup. Definitely, they are great stars, they are very good, and I appreciate their qualities.”

He added, “But because they have not played for Nigeria, I have never thought of them in that light. Rather, I focus on the players who do represent Nigeria, such as Lookman and Osimhen, and I believe they will take our team to the highest level.”

Ademola Lookman and Victor Osimhen for Super Eagles. Photo by IMAGO

As it stands, despite the quality of players, the Super Eagles have struggled to capitalize on their potential. They have failed to qualify for two consecutive FIFA World Cups and have finished second and third in the last two Africa Cup of Nations tournaments. Nonetheless, under the leadership of manager Eric Chelle, the team has started to show some promise, and there is growing hope that this current crop of players will soon win some silverware.