The English Premier League has been home to some of the world’s greatest footballers, and over the years, Nigerian players have carved out a significant presence in one of the most competitive football leagues in the world. From silky midfielders to goal-scoring strikers, Nigerian talents have showcased their flair and determination, leaving their mark on the Premier League. This article takes a look at the top 10 Nigerian players who have graced the Premier League, with legendary names like Kanu Nwankwo and Jay Jay Okocha leading the charge
10. Odion Ighalo – A Strong Start with Watford (Watford, Manchester United)
Odion Ighalo enjoyed a breakout season with Watford in the Premier League, where he played a key role in helping the club gain promotion to the top flight. His performances in Watford’s first season in the Premier League saw him finish as the club’s top scorer, with 15 goals in the 2015-16 season. Ighalo’s powerful presence, finishing ability, and off-the-ball movement made him one of the standout strikers in the league during that period.
Although his later years in the Premier League were less impactful, Ighalo’s contribution to Watford’s promotion and his goal-scoring form during his first season are memorable moments in Premier League history.
9. Osaze Odemwingie – A Brilliant Forward for West Brom (West Brom, Cardiff City, Stoke City)
Osaze Odemwingie made a name for himself at West Bromwich Albion, where he became the club’s all-time highest goalscorer in a single Premier League season, netting 15 goals. His ability to create chances and finish in front of goal made him a key player for West Brom, and his performances earned him recognition as one of the league’s top attacking players during his time at the club.
Although his time at Cardiff City and Stoke City was less fruitful, Odemwingie’s legacy as a Premier League forward remains intact. His skill, creativity, and work ethic made him one of Nigeria’s most exciting players to watch in the league.
8. Victor Moses – Versatile and Powerful for Chelsea (Wigan, Stoke, Liverpool, Chelsea)
Victor Moses’ journey in the Premier League is one of resilience and versatility. Moses made his name at Wigan before moving to Chelsea, where he won the UEFA Champions League and the Premier League. His loan spells at Liverpool, Stoke City, and later Chelsea highlighted his adaptability, excelling as both a wing-back and a forward.
Moses was instrumental for Chelsea in the 2012-2013 season, where the club won the UEFA Europa League, and he played a key role in Nigeria’s triumph at the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations. His adaptability, pace, and work ethic made him an important player in the Premier League during his time with top clubs.
7. Celestine Babayaro – A Strong Left-Back for Chelsea and Newcastle United (Chelsea, Newcastle United)
Celestine Babayaro was an energetic and committed left-back who had successful stints with both Chelsea and Newcastle United. Babayaro joined Chelsea from Anderlecht in 1997 and quickly established himself as one of the best left-backs in the Premier League. His time at Chelsea saw him win several domestic trophies, including the FA Cup and the UEFA Cup Winners’ Cup.
After his time at Chelsea, Babayaro moved to Newcastle United, where he continued to impress with his pace and defensive abilities. He made over 200 appearances in the Premier League and was a fan favorite due to his hardworking nature and acrobatic celebrations, including his signature backflips after scoring goals.
6. Daniel Amokachi – A Powerful Presence for Everton (Everton)
Daniel ‘The Bull’ Amokachi had a significant impact at Everton after his performances for Nigeria during the 1994 FIFA World Cup. Amokachi scored one of the earliest goals in the new format of the UEFA Champions League for Everton, helping the team secure a vital win in their group stage match against CSKA Moscow.
Amokachi’s physicality and goal-scoring ability were evident in his time at Everton, where he scored 10 goals in 43 appearances. His powerful runs and energetic play made him a fan favorite, and while he didn’t play for as long as some of the other Nigerian stars, Amokachi left a lasting impression during his time in the Premier League.
5. Joseph Yobo – Everton’s Defensive Rock (Everton)
Joseph Yobo was a key figure at Everton, where he spent nine seasons as a reliable central defender. A stalwart at the heart of Everton’s defense, Yobo was known for his leadership qualities and defensive solidity. He made 220 Premier League appearances for the Toffees, scoring eight goals.
Yobo’s consistency in the Premier League was unmatched, and he played every minute of every game in the 2006-07 season, a feat that earned him admiration from both fans and teammates. Although he did not win any titles with Everton, Yobo’s contributions were crucial in helping the club maintain its top-flight status and qualify for European competitions.
4. Yakubu Aiyegbeni – The Goal Machine (Portsmouth, Middlesbrough, Everton, Leicester City, Blackburn Rovers, Reading)
Yakubu Aiyegbeni, known as ‘The Yak,’ was one of the most prolific Nigerian strikers in Premier League history. With a remarkable record of 28 Premier League goals in two seasons at Portsmouth, Aiyegbeni established himself as a clinical forward with a deadly eye for goal. He became the club’s highest-ever Premier League scorer.
His move to Everton for a transfer fee of £11.25 million saw him continue to excel in the English top flight. Aiyegbeni is one of only two African strikers to score 100 goals in English football, with Didier Drogba being the other. He played for several Premier League clubs during his career, including Middlesbrough, Leicester City, Blackburn Rovers, and Reading, and became a staple in the Nigerian national team.
3. Mikel Obi – The Shield for Chelsea (Chelsea)
John Mikel Obi’s impact at Chelsea cannot be understated. The Nigerian midfielder was the backbone of Chelsea’s midfield for over a decade, providing steel and composure in front of the defense. Mikel was instrumental in Chelsea’s success during his 11 seasons at the club, winning the UEFA Champions League, two Premier League titles, three FA Cups, and several other domestic and international honors.
Although Mikel wasn’t known for his goal-scoring abilities—he scored just two goals during his time at Chelsea—his defensive work and ball distribution were crucial in the club’s triumphs. Mikel’s partnership with fellow midfielder Frank Lampard in Chelsea’s midfield was a key factor in their Premier League successes. His contributions to the club’s UEFA Champions League win in 2012 cemented his legacy as one of Nigeria’s greatest exports to the Premier League.
2. Jay Jay Okocha – Skill and Elegance in the Premier League (Bolton, Hull City)
Known for his exceptional dribbling and flair, Austine ‘Jay Jay’ Okocha was one of the most skillful players to ever grace the Premier League. After joining Bolton Wanderers from Paris Saint-Germain in 1998, Okocha immediately became a fan favorite with his mesmerizing skills, silky first touch, and ability to produce magic on the ball.
Okocha’s performances for Bolton were nothing short of brilliant, and his goal in the 2008 season was voted as the club’s best Premier League goal. He played 124 Premier League games for Bolton, scoring 14 goals and helping the club reach a cup final for the first time in nearly a decade. His time at Hull City also added to his legacy in the Premier League, showcasing his enduring class. Bolton even printed shirts with the slogan, “Jay-Jay, so good they named him twice,” a fitting tribute to his footballing genius.
1. Kanu Nwankwo – A Premier League Icon (Arsenal, West Brom, Portsmouth)
Kanu Nwankwo, one of Nigeria’s most decorated footballers, is undoubtedly one of the greatest players to ever play in the Premier League. The towering striker is best remembered for his incredible technical ability, flair, and composure in front of goal. Kanu enjoyed a memorable stint at Arsenal, where he was part of their iconic ‘Invincibles’ squad that won the Premier League title in 2004 without losing a single match.
Kanu is perhaps most famous for his remarkable hat-trick against Chelsea, where he came off the bench to score three goals in just 15 minutes, leading Arsenal to a stunning comeback victory after trailing 2-0. He went on to play for West Brom and Portsmouth, winning the FA Cup with both clubs, making him one of the few players in Premier League history to win the prestigious competition with two different teams. Kanu made 119 appearances in the Premier League, scoring 37 goals.
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Conclusion
Nigeria has produced some of the finest footballing talents to grace the Premier League, with players like Kanu Nwankwo and Jay Jay Okocha leading the way. These Nigerian Players stars, along with others such as Mikel Obi, Yakubu Aiyegbeni, and Victor Moses, have left an indelible mark on the English game. Their skill, determination, and achievements have not only contributed to the success of their clubs but have also made them legends in Nigerian football history. As we celebrate these top 10 Nigerian players, we recognize their contributions to the global game and the Premier League, which continues to thrive with diverse and exceptional talent.
