Chuba Akpom says he is a strong Naija boy but playing for the Super Eagles is about opportunity, not just choice in reply to Mikel Obi.
Ajax striker Chuba Akpom has responded to former Super Eagles captain John Mikel Obi’s criticism of foreign-born players who he claims treat Nigeria as a “second option.”
Pulse Sports reported Mikel’s comments during a podcast where he expressed frustration over players of African descent who, after failing to secure a spot on their countries’ national teams, turn to Nigeria later in their careers.
 "Nigeria never approached me: Ignored Super Eagles-eligible Akpom fires back at Mikel Obi's attack on foreign-born stars 1")
The Super Eagles-eligible striker switched his allegiance from England to Nigeria at 23 but has been ignored ever since.
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 "Nigeria never approached me: Ignored Super Eagles-eligible Akpom fires back at Mikel Obi's attack on foreign-born stars 2")
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Mikel, a dedicated servant of Nigerian football, highlighted his commitment to the national team, famously supporting the U-23 squad during the 2016 Rio Olympics.
He voiced his concerns about players born outside Africa who delay their allegiance to their heritage until their chances with European teams diminish.
Chuba Akpom switched his allegiance at the age of 23.
“When they get to 25 or 26 and don’t get a call-up from England, then they call Nigeria. We shouldn’t be treated as second options,” Mikel stated emphatically.
In the wake of these remarks, Akpom, who switched his allegiance to Nigeria at the age of 23 but has yet to receive a call-up, addressed the issue in an interview with Nigerian journalist Oma after Ajax’s victory over Galatasaray in the Europa League.
Akpom and Victor Osimhen after the game in the Europa League.
He clarified that he does not feel personally attacked by Mikel’s comments, explaining that many players in similar situations have not had the opportunity to represent their country from a young age.
“I was never approached when I was young to play for Nigeria,” he said. “So, when you are already in the England system, that’s all you know.”
Mikel Obi is against players making Nigeria second choice. || YouTube
Akpom emphasised that being part of the England football system often leaves little room for players to explore their heritage early on.
“As you get older, you start to realise it is difficult to play for England,” he noted. His perspective sheds light on the complexities faced by players navigating dual identities and national loyalties.
Chuba Akpom came off the bench to help Ajax beat Galatasaray.
He further elaborated on the importance of talent and commitment in strengthening Nigeria’s national team: “If you want to represent the country, the better the talents that Nigeria has, the stronger the nation is.”
Akpom passionately asserted that wearing the Nigerian jersey transcends past affiliations. “When you put the shirt on, nobody cares about your past. You’re a Nigerian boy; that Naija blood is strong and you can’t run away from this,” he concluded.
The first-ever recipient of the PFA Championship Players’ Player of the Year Award is Nigerian striker Chuba Akpom. Image Credit – Twitter/Chuba Akpom
As discussions around national identity and representation continue within football circles, both Mikel Obi’s and Akpom’s perspectives highlight a growing tension between heritage and opportunity in modern football.
The dialogue reflects broader themes of belonging and commitment that resonate with many athletes navigating similar paths.
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