As many of the domestic seasons come to an end in Europe and around the world, now is a good time to reflect on which Nigerian players are standing out in 2020.
The Super Eagles are in a great position to qualify for the African Cup of Nations and will have an eye on a spot at the 2020 World Cup in Qatar.
Here is a look at who are the three-star Nigerians in 2020 so far.
ODION IGHALO
When he signed for Manchester United on loan back in January, Odion Ighalo fulfilled a dream. Since then, he has justified why the Premier League club were desperate to add his services, as he has scored some crucial goals in England.
Ighalo has done an excellent job of leading Nigeria’s line over the last few years.
He was the Super Eagles’ top goalscorer at the 2019 African Cup of Nations in Egypt. Sadly, the 31-year-old retired from international football after that tournament.
Although he will no longer feature in a Nigerian shirt, Ighalo should continue to shine in domestic football. He has two goals in three appearances in the Europa League this season, where his side are the favorites in the football betting to lift the trophy.
United are reportedly trying to make his deal permanent as they see him as an important player to help them win major trophies once again in Europe.
Wilfred Ndidi
Wilfred Ndidi has been at Premier League club Leicester City for four years now. Although he has impressed in England since signing from Genk in January 2017, this is arguably his best campaign to date.
LEICESTER, ENGLAND – DECEMBER 26: (THE SUN OUT, THE SUN ON SUNDAY OUT)Jordan Henderson of Liverpool with Wilfred Ndidi of Leicester City during the Premier League match between Leicester City and Liverpool FC at The King Power Stadium on December 26, 2019 in Leicester, United Kingdom. (Photo by Andrew Powell/Liverpool FC via Getty Images)
Ndidi is one of the first names on Gernot Rohr’s team sheet for Nigeria as he also consistently performs well whenever he is handed the national team jersey.
The 23-year-old has a wealth of experience now, but his best years could still be well ahead of him. He has been a big part of the Foxes’ success in the Premier League this season, where they are on course for a Champions League spot.
Ndidi looks like a future captain of the Super Eagles and could end his career as one of the great players to feature for Nigeria.
Victor Osimhen
Lille striker Victor Osimhen has had a breakout season in France where he has scored 18 goals in the campaign. He is now being linked with a move to Chelsea and Manchester United this summer.
Osimhen is just 21 years old but is already a starter in Rohr’s senior team. He has scored four goals in seven appearances for the national team since making his debut in 2019.
The youngster was part of the Nigerian under-17 team which won the World Cup in 2015. Osimhen was also the Golden Ball winner at that tournament. He has continued to develop as a player since then – which has been evident in 2020, where he has been one of the best strikers in Europe.
With so much talent now in the Super Eagles squad, Nigerian fans can be very excited about the prospects of the national team over the next few years.
