Snubbed by Nigeria but backed by Van Nistelrooy: 18yo right-back makes PL debut for Leicester City

Talented right-back Olabade Aluko made his Premier League debut on the final day of the 2024–2025 season as Leicester City fell 2–0 to Bournemouth at the Vitality Stadium.

The 18-year-old was rewarded for his standout performances with the Foxes development squad, having trained with the first team in recent weeks.

Manager Ruud van Nistelrooy first named Aluko in a senior matchday squad on April 12 against Brighton & Hove Albion, though the youngster remained an unused substitute at the AMEX.

Eligible to represent Nigeria through his parents, Aluko had hoped to feature for the Flying Eagles at the 2025 Africa U20 Cup of Nations in Egypt, but was overlooked for selection.

The defender's camp was in contact with several officials of the Nigeria Football Federation before Flying Eagles manager Aliyu Zubairu announced his squad for the tournament in Egypt.

Van Nistelrooy, however, has earmarked Aluko as a future first-team prospect and handed him his senior debut in the 89th minute, replacing Victor Kristiansen.

Bournemouth had already put the game beyond reach with a second-half brace from Antoine Semenyo, before Aluko's introduction.

Aluko had previously faced senior opposition in the EFL Trophy, going the distance against Wigan Athletic and Northampton Town, and featuring briefly against Notts County.

Known for his maturity and leadership, he captained Leicester U18s in a Premier League fixture against Fulham in October 2024.
 

Ifeanyi Emmanuel

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