The England youth international has Nigerian roots but playing for the Super Eagles is not on his wishlist
Chelsea youngster Carney Chukwuemeka has shut the door on ever appearing for three-time African champions Nigeria, following his latest public statements.
In a chat with Chelsea’s 5th Stand application, Chukwuemeka vowed to do everything within his power to make the England national team squad to their next major tournament, the 2024 European Championship.
Born in Austria to parents with Nigerian heritage, Chukwuemeka was raised in England making him eligible to represent the three countries.
The exciting playmaker has, however, been brought up within the English set-up featuring for the under-17s, u-18s, u-19s, and u-20s.
Earlier this year, Chukwuemeka played a crucial role as England won the 2022 UEFA European Under-19 Championship. The 19-year-old made the team of the tournament.
Chukwuemeka’s brilliance earned him a move to Chelsea from Aston Villa, signing a bumper six-year contract in August.
Any hopes of Nigerian fans seeing the outstanding young midfielder in the green and white colours of the Super Eagles have, however, been dashed.
Revealing his aims for next year, the teenager targets making his debut for England and going on to become crucial for the Three Lions.
“In 2023, I want to kick on and break into the team,” Chukwuemeka said.
“To make my Champions League debut. To keep my confidence high. To build on my past performances.
“And so much as it was my dream to play for Chelsea, it’s also my dream to play for my country England.
“I’ve set myself this goal to play at EURO 2024.”
Carney Chukwuemeka has made three appearances for Chelsea in the Premier League since his move to Stanford Bridge.
