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Trabzonspor defender Chibuike Nwaiwu has been listed among the most impressive young players in world football, according to the latest study by the CIES Football Observatory, Footynaija reports.
The report, which analyses performances across dozens of leagues, highlights the best outfield players under the age of 23 using detailed data covering defending, passing, attacking contribution and overall influence on matches.
At the top of the global standings is Lamine Yamal of Barcelona, alongside Juventus forward Kenan Yıldız and Paris Saint-Germain talent Warren Zaïre-Emery.
Nwaiwu made the prestigious list after an excellent spell at Wolfsberger and a great start to life in Turkey since joining Trabzonspor in January.
Futbolda komple stoper tanımının karşılığı sanırım Nwaiwu defans ve hücumda inanılmaz işler yapıyor
— ﺦ (@toscanello61) April 6, 2026
Abartılan Skriniar Sanchez Agbadou yanından geçemez pic.twitter.com/bV689IMdpe
The defender has settled quickly, combining physical strength with composure in possession. His performances have already included key moments, notably a decisive headed goal in a recent league victory over Galatasaray.
Having begun his career in Nigeria with Enyimba, Nwaiwu’s transition from midfield to central defence has added a layer of tactical flexibility to his game.
That growth has been recognised at international level, with the youngster recently making his debut for the Nigeria national team and showing encouraging signs of composure on a bigger stage.
He is not the only Nigeria-eligible player on the CIES ranking. In England, Michael Kayode has been recognised for his performances with Brentford, while in Italy, Honest Ahanor gets the nod with his displays in Serie A.
Rangers left-back Jayden Meghoma and Göztepe midfielder Anthony Dennis are both highly rated. Further across Europe, players such as David Moses at Slavia Prague, Mukhtar Adamu with Odds BK, and Shola Ogundana at Dynamo Kyiv are also building strong reputations.
https://football-observatory.com/Top-U23-outfield-players-67-leagues
