Nine Nigerian stars to watch in 2024/25 EPL season

 As the 2024/25 English Premier League kicks off, Nigerian football stars are set to light up the world’s most-watched league once again. 

While some familiar faces return from last season’s campaigns with Brentford, Nottingham Forest, and Fulham, others are making their comeback after earning instant promotion with Leicester City and Southampton. However, the relegation of Luton Town in 2023/24 saw the departure of Elijah Adebayo, Gabriel Osho, and Fred Onyedinma from the English top flight, PETER AKINBO writes

Frank Onyeka (Brentford)

Despite often starting from the bench last season, Frank Onyeka contributed to Brentford’s survival. The midfielder will be pushing for more regular starts this term, eager to prove his worth in Thomas Frank’s system.

Onyeka’s energy and work rate in midfield provide balance to Brentford’s play, and he’ll be looking to add more goals to his game after netting just once in 26 appearances last season. His performances could be crucial to the Bees’ ambitions of a more comfortable mid-table finish.

Alex Iwobi (Fulham)

Alex Iwobi’s renaissance under Marco Silva at Fulham remains on the spiral.

The versatile midfielder, who netted five goals in 30 games last season, has shown promising form in pre-season and looks set to elevate his game further.

While goal-scoring hasn’t been Iwobi’s primary strength, his vision and ability to create chances for teammates make him an invaluable asset to the Cottagers. As he enters his prime years, the 28-year-old will be aiming to add more goals to his repertoire and cement his status as one of Fulham’s key players.

Calvin Bassey (Fulham)

Calvin Bassey has quickly established himself as one of Fulham’s most reliable defenders since his arrival at the club from Ajax.

The robust centre-back made 29 appearances last season, contributing a goal and showcasing his aerial prowess in both boxes.

As Fulham look to build on their solid mid-table finish last season, Bassey’s continued development will be crucial.

His strength, pace, and improving ball-playing abilities make him a modern defender well-suited for the demands of Premier League football.

Wilfred Ndidi (Leicester City)

After a stellar campaign in the Championship, where he played a pivotal role in Leicester City’s swift return to the Premier League as champions, Wilfred Ndidi is poised to reclaim his place among England’s elite midfielders.

The 27-year-old Nigeria international, who made 32 appearances and netted four goals last season, will be crucial in anchoring Leicester’s midfield and shielding their back line.

Ndidi’s experience and tenacity will be vital as the Foxes aim to establish themselves once again in the top flight. His ability to break up play and initiate attacks could prove instrumental in Leicester’s quest to avoid another relegation battle.

Taiwo Awoniyi (Nottingham Forest)

Despite having an injury-plagued 2023/24 campaign, Taiwo Awoniyi scored six goals in 20 appearances for Nottingham Forest.

The powerful striker will be hoping for an injury-free campaign to truly showcase his potential in the Premier League.

Known for his physical presence and aerial ability, a fit Awoniyi could be the difference-maker for Forest as they aim to build on their survival last season.

His hold-up play and finishing skills make him a constant threat to opposition defenders.

Ola Aina (Nottingham Forest)

Ola Aina’s versatility and solid defensive performances were key to Nottingham Forest’s survival last season.

The full-back’s ability to contribute in attack, overlapping to provide width and crosses, adds another dimension to Forest’s play.

While he managed just one goal last season, Aina will be looking to improve his attacking output without compromising his defensive duties. His experience and consistency will be crucial as Forest aim to establish themselves as Premier League regulars.

Emmanuel Dennis (Nottingham Forest)

Dennis will be eager to re-establish himself as a potent attacking threat with Forest this season.

The Nigerian forward’s stint with Watford saw him net 10 goals and provide 6 assists in the 2021/22 season, showcasing his ability to make an impact at this level.

Dennis’s versatility allows him to operate across the frontline, providing Forest manager Nuno Espirito Santo with tactical flexibility.

Known for his pace, dribbling skills, and eye for goal, the 26-year-old will be looking to form a formidable partnership with Nigerian teammate Taiwo Awoniyi.

After a challenging season that saw limited playing time, Dennis will be determined to prove his worth and secure a regular spot in Forest’s starting lineup.

His ability to create chances out of nothing and his work rate off the ball could prove crucial in Forest’s bid to improve on last season’s performance.

Joe Aribo (Southampton)

Joe Aribo emerged as one of Nigeria’s standout performers in the championship last season. His creativity and goal-scoring ability were crucial in Southampton’s promotion campaign, and he’ll be eager to prove himself at the highest level once again.

Aribo’s technical proficiency, coupled with his ability to hold up play and drive attacks, will be essential for the Saints as they look to establish themselves in the Premier League.

The midfielder’s experience from his time with Rangers in European competitions could prove invaluable in dealing with the challenges of top-flight football.

Paul Onuachu (Southampton)

Following a challenging spell during his initial time with Southampton, Paul Onuachu is back at St. Mary’s with renewed vigour and determination.

The towering striker’s loan spell at Trabzonspor, where he clinched the league title and scored 15 goals in 21 appearances, has rekindled hopes of him becoming the focal point of Southampton’s attack.

Under new manager Russell Martin, Onuachu will be keen to replicate his Turkish league form in the Premier League.

His aerial prowess and clinical finishing could provide the Saints the firepower needed to cement their place in the top division following their promotion.

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