Philip Otele joins FC Basel: 4 Nigerian players who have represented the Swiss champions

20-time Super League champions, FC Basel, have added Nigerian forward, Philip Otele, on a season-long loan move, Soccernet.ng reports.

The arrival of Otele at Basel from UAE Pro League side, Al Wahda, continues the tradition of Nigerian players donning the colours of the St. Jakob-Park outfit.

Get Our Sports News First – Join Our WhatsApp Channel Now!

These Nigerian players have brought their A-game to the RotBlau, from defenders to wingers and midfielders. Here’s a look at four Nigerian players who have represented FC Basel:

Gabriel Okolosi

Okolosi was one of the earlier Nigerian players to feature for the Basel-based club. The four-capped Nigeria international made 25 appearances for Basel during the 1995-96 season, scoring two goals.

That was his last season with Basel before joining BSC Young Boys in 1996.

Noah Okafor

Though born in Switzerland, Okafor is of Nigerian descent and had a strong connection to representing the Super Eagles.

However, after earning 19 caps for Switzerland, his chances of playing for Nigeria were ruled out. Currently playing for AC Milan, Okafor’s earlier career at Basel between 2018 and 2020 saw him play 39 games and score three goals.

After moving from Basel, he became a key player for Red Bull Salzburg, where his career continues to flourish.

Manuel Akanji

Akanji, like Okafor, is a Swiss-born football player of Nigerian descent. He made 42 appearances and scored five goals as a defender for Basel.

Akanji played a crucial role in helping the club win two Swiss Super League titles before moving to Borussia Dortmund and later Manchester City.

Philip Otele

Otele is the latest Nigerian addition to the Swiss club, having joined Basel from Al Wahda during the January transfer window.

The Port-Harcourt-born winger is expected to bolster Basel’s attack for the remainder of the season. His contract includes an option for a permanent transfer, which he hopes to secure by proving his worth.