Nigeria’s Super Eagles: Femi Azeez Ranked Second, Five U23 Stars Join the Top 10 Midfielders

New wave of Nigerian midfield talent emerges as several young players climb the market‑value ladder, according to Afrik‑Foot.

The latest Transfermarkt valuation update shows a pronounced shift in Nigerian football, with a new generation of midfielders rapidly ascending the rankings.

While established stars such as Wilfred Ndidi and Frank Onyeka remain among the country’s elite, younger talents are now dominating the conversation.

Transfermarkt’s most recent review lists five players aged 23 or younger among Nigeria’s ten most valuable midfielders. Their rise reflects strong performances across Europe, North America and international duty over the past season.

At the top is Club Brugge midfielder Raphael Onyedika, whose outstanding displays in Belgium and the UEFA Champions League have made him Nigeria’s most valuable midfielder. Close behind is Millwall star Femi Azeez, whose remarkable campaign in England and dream Super Eagles debut have propelled his value to a career‑high figure.

Super Eagles: 10 most valuable Nigerian midfielders

Hamzat Ojediran (€3m)

Hamzat Ojediran closes the top ten after a solid first season with Colorado Rapids in Major League Soccer.

The 22‑year‑old defensive midfielder moved from RC Lens in January and quickly established himself as a regular starter. He appeared in 13 matches, played 944 minutes and scored one goal.

Known for his aggressive ball‑winning style, Ojediran impressed with his passing range and concentration. His energetic displays made him a key figure in Colorado’s midfield, although his combative approach also earned him six yellow cards.

Tochukwu Nnadi (€4.5m)

Tochukwu Nnadi’s value continues to rise following a breakthrough campaign that moved him from Belgium to one of France’s biggest clubs.

The 22‑year‑old began the season at Zulte Waregem, making 18 appearances before securing a move to Olympique Marseille in February. Since arriving in Ligue 1, he has gradually earned opportunities, recording an assist and an impressive 91 % passing accuracy.

His progress also earned him increased trust with the Super Eagles. Nnadi started recent friendlies against Poland and Portugal and has emerged as one of Nigeria’s most exciting young midfield prospects.

Fisayo Dele‑Bashiru (€6m)

Despite a slight drop in value, Fisayo Dele‑Bashiru remains among Nigeria’s leading midfielders.

The Lazio player made 24 Serie A appearances during the season, scoring once and maintaining a remarkable 93 % pass completion rate. Although he struggled to secure a permanent starting place, he remained an important squad member.

His influence extended to the national team, where he featured during the Africa Cup of Nations and provided an assist in Nigeria’s recent friendly against Portugal.

Ebenezer Akinsanmiro (€7m)

Ebenezer Akinsanmiro reached a new career‑high valuation after an impressive campaign with Pisa.

The 21‑year‑old midfielder played 24 league matches and became one of the few bright spots in a difficult season for the Italian club. His ability to recover possession, break up attacks and control matches earned praise across Serie A.

Strong performances against AC Milan and Fiorentina further enhanced his reputation, while his form attracted interest from both Pisa and parent club Inter Milan.

Anthony Dennis (€8m)

Anthony Dennis continues to enjoy the highest valuation of his career following a standout season in Turkey.

The 21‑year‑old was one of Göztepe’s most consistent performers, making 31 league appearances and contributing three goals. He accumulated more than 2,400 minutes and established himself as one of the club’s most reliable midfield players.

His impressive defensive numbers, ball recoveries and duel success rate underline why he is considered one of Nigeria’s brightest young midfielders.

Frank Onyeka (€8m)

Frank Onyeka’s resurgence has pushed him back among Nigeria’s most valuable midfielders.

After limited opportunities at Brentford, the Super Eagles midfielder revitalised his career during a loan spell at Coventry City. He became a key figure under Frank Lampard and helped guide the club to promotion to the Premier League.

His performances also ensured he remained an important member of Nigeria’s Super Eagles.

Wilfred Ndidi (€8m)

Wilfred Ndidi may no longer occupy the top spot, but he remains one of Nigeria’s most respected midfielders.

The 29‑year‑old adapted quickly following his move to Besiktas, becoming a dominant force in the Turkish Super Lig. He made 25 league appearances, scored twice and maintained strong defensive numbers throughout the campaign.

Ndidi also continued to deliver for Nigeria, contributing at AFCON and in high‑profile friendlies against Poland and Portugal.

David Moses (€10m)

David Moses has enjoyed a remarkable rise over the past year. The 21‑year‑old Slavia Prague midfielder reached a career‑high value after establishing himself as one of the Czech league’s most consistent performers. He registered one goal and three assists while helping control matches from central midfield.

His performances in domestic competition and the UEFA Champions League have significantly increased his profile across Europe.

Femi Azeez (€15m)

Few Nigerian players enjoyed a bigger breakthrough season than Femi Azeez. The Millwall star produced 11 goals and seven assists in the Championship, helping the club challenge for promotion. His performances earned him a place in the Championship Team of the Season and attracted interest from several Premier League clubs.

Azeez also made a dream start to international football. He scored twice on his Super Eagles debut against Zimbabwe before helping Nigeria win the Unity Cup, further boosting his reputation and market value.

Raphael Onyedika (€23m)

Raphael Onyedika sits comfortably at the top of the rankings as Nigeria’s most valuable midfielder. The Club Brugge star enjoyed an exceptional season in Belgium and Europe. He featured regularly in the Belgian Pro League, while his performances in the UEFA Champions League showcased his quality against elite opposition.

Onyedika scored two Champions League goals, provided an assist and maintained outstanding passing numbers. He also contributed two goals for Nigeria during AFCON, confirming his status as one of Africa’s leading midfielders.

At just 25 years old, he remains the benchmark for Nigerian midfielders and currently leads a new generation that is rapidly transforming the Super Eagles midfield landscape.