Habeeb Ogunneye Young Lions snub: Should NFF make a move for talented Man Utd right-back?

Habeeb Ogunneye, the promising right-back hailing from Manchester United's esteemed academy, is at the center of discussions in this article over his international future given his mind-blowing potential.

Born in London on November 12, 2005, Ogunneye's trajectory through the ranks of one of England's most illustrious clubs has been nothing short of remarkable.

 At the tender age of fifteen, Ogunneye showcased his prowess on the field by making his debut for Manchester United's U-18 team in 2021.

His rapid development and undeniable talent soon led to the signing of his first professional contract, a testament to his immense potential.

This season, he has received three call-ups for first team games but remained an unused substitute on each occasion.

The 18-year-old has represented England at the U-17 level, earning three caps in the process.

Ogunneye is also eligible to don the revered green and white of the Super Eagles of Nigeria by virtue of being born to Nigerian parents.

Sadly, Ogunneye was recently overlooked for England's U19 squad for for their two games in Morocco later this month and was not considered for the U20s and U21s. 

Although the exclusion might come as a disappointment for the young lad, his blend of defensive solidity and attacking flair,

Ogunneye could offer a valuable addition to Nigeria's footballing arsenal, injecting youth and vitality into the squad.

Therefore, this question persists: should the Nigerian Federation make a move to secure Ogunneye's commitment?

The allure of representing one's homeland often holds a special significance for players with dual nationality, offering a chance to connect with their cultural heritage while contributing to the nation's footballing legacy.

For Ogunneye, the opportunity to follow in the footsteps of Nigerian footballing counterparts holds undeniable appeal, providing a platform to showcase his talents on the international stage.

Pledging allegiance to Nigeria could offer Ogunneye the chance to compete in prestigious competitions such as the Africa Cup of Nations and the FIFA World Cup and it would also entail relinquishing his ties to England and potentially foregoing opportunities within the English setup.

In the corridors of power at the Nigerian Football Federation, it is expected that deliberations should be underway in pursuing Ogunneye's allegiance so as to improve the national team's squad depth.

Ultimately, the decision rests in the hands of Habeeb Ogunneye himself, as he contemplates the path that will shape his footballing legacy.

Moreover, whether he chooses to embrace his Nigerian roots and embark on a new chapter in his international career or remain steadfast in his ties with England, it should be respected.

Ejim Kaycee

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