The Belgium-based defender desires to be part of the Nigerian team for the next edition of the FIFA World Cup
Former German youth national centre-back Jordan Torunarigha has decided to switch his international allegiance and play for the Nigerian national team, Soccernet.ng reports.
This surprising announcement comes after Torunarigha represented Germany at all youth levels and even made it to their squad for the 2021 Olympic Games. It's a fascinating turn of events for the talented center-back.
Back in May 2018, Torunarigha had turned down the opportunity to don the green and white jersey of Nigeria. At the time, Super Eagles manager Gernot Rohr had been eager to secure Torunarigha's services for the three-time African champions.
However, the young player opted to continue his international career with Germany.
In a recent chat with Soccernet.ng, Torunarigha confessed that one of the reasons he snubbed the Super Eagles was that he had never visited Nigeria and knew nothing about its people.
Fast forward to today, and Torunarigha has had a change of heart.
His management confirmed the news and stated that all the necessary documents had already been submitted to FIFA.
If everything goes according to plan, Torunarigha, whose father is a former Nigerian international, will join Coach Jose Peseiro's team for the international matches scheduled for September.
“I have given it a lot of thought,” revealed Torunarigha, as per Ran. “My father has already played for the Nigerian national team, so I'm really happy that I can follow in his footsteps now.” His eyes are firmly set on the ultimate prize, as he added, “My goal is to be part of the Nigerian team at the 2026 World Cup.”
Torunarigha's journey in football began in the youth department of Hertha BSC, where he honed his skills before progressing through the ranks of German junior teams, starting from the U16 level.
His talent and potential caught the attention of coaches, earning him a place in Coach Stefan Kuntz's squad for the 2021 Olympics in Tokyo.
Currently, Torunarigha plies his trade at KAA Gent, a Belgian first-division club, where he lifted the Belgian Cup last year.
With his skill and determination, Torunarigha has the potential to become a key figure in the Super Eagles' quest for glory.
I would reject him if I was the Nigeria football federation, this is not a player that loves or is dedicated to the country.
says someone judging from afar.
It’s a very good news for the super eagles and Nigeria, I’ve followed Torunarigha since the days of playing for Germany under 17 and under 21 he’s a talented football player, as a matter of fact Nigeria currently does not have a defender of his status, I don’t blame him he was born and bred in Germany, same thing applies to Bukayo Saka and Tomori, am happy the paper work are in process, welcome to Nigeria
he is a good defender he shud be called up