“I’m ready to play for Super Eagles” – Record-breaking defender chooses Nigeria over England & Netherlands

FC Dallas defender Osaze Urhoghide has declared his readiness to represent Nigeria at the international level, ending speculation over his eligibility for three nations, Soccernet.ng reports.

Born in Rotterdam to Nigerian parents, Urhoghide spent his early childhood in the Netherlands before moving to England at the age of five. He is eligible to represent all three countries but has now pledged his allegiance to Nigeria.

What Urhoghide said about Nigeria chance

“I am ready to play for my fatherland, Nigeria,” said Urhoghide as per The Punch.

“I have informed family members of my readiness to play for the Super Eagles. I am also using this opportunity to let the Nigeria Football Federation know that I am ready.”

A club-record fee for a defender.

We have acquired Osaze Urhoghide from Amiens SC and signed the defender to a four-year contract through 2028 with a one-year club option for 2029. pic.twitter.com/pM6CIvUI5H

— FC Dallas (@FCDallas) February 11, 2025

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The 24-year-old, who joined FC Dallas in February 2025 for a club-record fee for a defender, has impressed in Major League Soccer. Known for his strength, versatility, and counter-attacking awareness, Urhoghide is capable of playing across the backline and as a defensive midfielder.

He previously trained with Nigeria’s U19 squad and had drawn attention from the Royal Dutch Football Association and the English FA, but his decision appears to favour a long-term future with the Super Eagles.

The move comes at a time when Nigeria’s defensive options are under scrutiny. With captain William Troost-Ekong, Kenneth Omeruo, and Leon Balogun entering the twilight of their careers and Semi Ajayi often battling injury, Urhoghide could offer a timely boost to a backline in need of fresh energy and consistency.

Often compared to former Nigeria captain Austin Eguavoen for his defensive discipline and tactical intelligence, Urhoghide brings experience from spells in England, Scotland, Belgium, France, and now the United States.

His journey began at AFC Wimbledon, where he signed his first professional contract in 2018.

He rose to prominence at Sheffield Wednesday, earning the club’s Player of the Month in February 2021 and attracting interest from Leeds, Watford, Crystal Palace, and Club Brugge.

Sheffield Wednesday's 19-year-old defender Osaze Urhoghide with one of the best interviews ever pic.twitter.com/3hMktgadNR

— SPORTbible (@sportbible) January 5, 2020

After moving to Celtic in 2021, he made his debut against Real Betis in the UEFA Europa League before gaining further experience on loan at KV Oostende. He later joined Amiens in France before making the switch to FC Dallas, where he has become a cornerstone of their defence.

Having never played for the Netherlands and England at youth level, Urhoghide could be available for selection ahead of Nigeria’s engagement next month.

In May, Eric Chelle is expected to lead the Super Eagles to the Unity Cup, a mini tournament also involving Ghana, Jamaica and Trinidad and Tobago in London.