AFCON 2025 is here, and the Super Eagles will need more than just experience to go far in a physically demanding tournament. Eric Chelle understands that fresh legs and fearless young talent could make all the difference, which is why the rise of Nigeria’s under-23 stars demands attention.
From Europe to the domestic league, young Nigerians are stepping up, earning senior minutes, and showing qualities that could boost the national team now or shape it in the years ahead.
In this piece, Footynaija profiles 10 standout U23 prospects who are building strong cases for AFCON consideration or a Super Eagles call-up not too far down the line.
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10. Emmanuel Uchenna (€4.50m)
A composed centre-back with Sparta Prague, the 2003-born defender combines aerial strength with calm distribution from the back. He made headlines after scoring on his debut and wearing the captain’s armband early in his stint. Still uncapped for Nigeria, but his rise in Europe puts him firmly on the radar.
9. Ebenezer Akinsanmiro (€4.50m)
Akinsanmiro has spent the last year developing inside one of Europe’s most structured systems at Inter Milan. Born in 2004, the midfielder has impressed coaches with his passing range and sharp movement between lines.
He has also trained regularly with Inter’s senior squad, picking up valuable habits from experienced teammates. Nigeria’s midfield group has been rebuilding under Eric Chelle and players with European grounding like Akinsanmiro offer something fresh for the future.
8. Anthony Dennis (€5.00m)
A key midfield link at Turkish side Göztepe SK, the 2004-born defensive midfielder stands out for his engine, ground coverage and ability to break up play before launching attacks. Yet to debut for the Super Eagles, but his consistent club minutes and physical profile make him one to watch for deeper midfield roles.
7. Rafiu Durosinmi (€6.50m)
Standing at 1.92m, the Viktoria Plzeň forward offers the kind of physical presence Nigeria often lacks in attack. A 2003-born striker with smart movement and clean finishing, he’s been making waves in the Czech top flight. If his form holds, a senior national team call-up could be on the cards soon.
6. David Moses (€7.00m)
A central midfielder for SK Slavia Prague, the 21-year-old stepped up from a smaller Czech club and has impressed with his maturity and game control. Though yet to feature for the Super Eagles, his calm presence in midfield and European experience make him a high-ceiling option for the future.
5. Chibuike Nwaiwu (€7.00m)
A centre-back at Austrian side Wolfsberger AC. Strong in physical duels and composed at the back, he’s already adjusting well to senior football in Europe. Though yet to feature for Nigeria’s senior team, he’s one to watch closely ahead of upcoming tournaments.
4. Gift Orban (€10.00m)
Born in 2003, Gift Orban is a centre-forward currently on loan at Hellas Verona from TSG Hoffenheim. Known for his quick goals and sharp movement in the box, he’s yet to earn a Super Eagles cap but his form in Europe makes him a strong contender for a call-up.
3. Christantus Uche (15.00m)
The 22-year-old started the 2025-26 season at Getafe, where he registered a goal and an assist in La Liga before switching to Crystal Palace. He has already made his debut for the Super Eagles, scoring the decisive penalty in the Unity Cup earlier this year. His versatility across the front line gives Nigeria another useful option.
2. George Ilenikhena (15.00m)
Born in 2006, he’s a centre-forward for AS Monaco and made headlines when he became the youngest scorer in the club’s Champions League history. Eligible for both Nigeria and France, his international decision will be closely watched.
1. Honest Ahanor (€20.00m)
Ahanor tops this list for good reason. The Atalanta centre back is regarded as one of the brightest young Nigerian defenders anywhere in Europe. His strength in duels, clean tackling and maturity at only 17 have earned him major attention.
Nigeria rarely produces defenders who break through this early, so his rise could shape Super Eagles plans for years. With AFCON 2025 and future tournaments ahead, Ahanor looks like a long-term defensive option with huge potential.
