Honest Ahanor has explained in clear and emotional terms why choosing to represent Italy feels natural to him, even with strong interest from Nigeria, Soccernet.ng reports.
The Atalanta defender, who recently received his first call-up to Italy’s Under-21 side, says his decision is rooted in identity, upbringing and the deep connection he feels to the country where he grew up.
Born in Aversa to Nigerian parents but raised in Genoa, Ahanor only became eligible to play for Italy after turning 18 in February 2026 and securing citizenship. That moment forced a choice, and his comments show why it leaned firmly towards the Azzurri.
“Wearing such an important jersey as Italy's is indescribable. Regardless of how many times you've worn it, or how many opportunities you've had to wear this jersey already,” he said as per TMW.
“Being able to represent your country, the place you live in, which is in your blood, is a powerful feeling.
“Being in the national team at 14, 15, or 18 makes little difference; it's unique. I'm lucky to have Ekhator and Venturino in the squad, and that gave me the opportunity to integrate well from the start.
“The bond and friendship we have will never end, regardless of the distance or the team you play for: being able to reunite with the national team is fantastic. The Under-21 team, beyond the footballing aspect, has players who are perfect on a human level.”
His words point to something deeper than tactics or career planning. The environment within the Italian setup, including familiar faces, shared language, and long-standing relationships has made the transition feel easy.
Even talk of the senior national team does not distract him at this stage.
“Regardless of whether it's the senior national team or an under-18 team, Italy is always Italy. Obviously that could be an additional satisfaction, but my mind is only on these two matches and thinking about doing well here.”
Ahanor: Nigeria still have a narrow path
Despite the strength of Ahanor’s feelings, his international future is not completely locked in.
The teenager is set to feature in key Under-21 European Championship qualifiers against North Macedonia and Sweden. If he plays in those matches, he will be provisionally tied to Italy. However, because they are youth-level competitive games, FIFA rules still allow a one-time switch later in his career.
That means the Nigeria national football team are not entirely out of the race, although the path is far from straightforward.
Nigeria’s football authorities are willing to push hard to convince Ahanor to commit to the Super Eagles, recognising both his talent and his Nigerian heritage. His rise at Atalanta has made him one of the most exciting young defenders with dual nationality.
Since joining from Genoa in 2025, he has made 28 appearances this season and even broke new ground in the UEFA Champions League as the youngest Italian to start a match. Such progress has also put him on the radar of Italy’s senior team, suggesting that his future could remain firmly with the Azzurri.
Still, international football can be unpredictable. Circumstances change, opportunities shift, and players sometimes rethink earlier decisions.
At the moment, though, Italy feels like home for Ahanor and representing them is a source of pride. But for Nigeria, while the challenge is now much greater, the story is not completely over.
