As the 2024/25 English Premier League season begins, Nigerian footballers are once again set to make a significant impact in the world’s most-watched football league. While some players return from previous campaigns with teams like Brentford, Nottingham Forest, and Fulham, others are re-entering the top flight with newly promoted sides Leicester City and Southampton. However, the relegation of Luton Town last season saw the departure of Nigerian players Elijah Adebayo, Gabriel Osho, and Fred Onyedinma from the Premier League.
### **Frank Onyeka (Brentford)**
Frank Onyeka, who played a key role in Brentford’s survival last season despite often starting from the bench, is determined to secure more regular playing time this season. The midfielder’s energy and work rate are vital to Brentford’s balance in midfield, and he will be looking to increase his goal tally, having scored just once in 26 appearances last season. Onyeka’s contributions could be pivotal in Brentford’s pursuit of a stable mid-table finish.
### **Alex Iwobi (Fulham)**
Alex Iwobi continues to thrive under Marco Silva at Fulham, following a successful 2023/24 season where he scored five goals in 30 appearances. Iwobi’s pre-season form suggests he is ready to elevate his game even further. Known for his vision and ability to create scoring opportunities, the 28-year-old midfielder aims to add more goals to his repertoire, solidifying his role as one of Fulham’s key players.
### **Calvin Bassey (Fulham)**
Calvin Bassey has quickly become a cornerstone of Fulham’s defense since joining from Ajax. The strong and agile centre-back made 29 appearances last season, contributing both defensively and offensively with a goal to his name. As Fulham seeks to build on last season’s mid-table finish, Bassey’s continued development will be crucial. His combination of strength, speed, and improving ball-playing skills makes him a valuable asset in the Premier League.
### **Wilfred Ndidi (Leicester City)**
Following Leicester City’s immediate return to the Premier League as Championship champions, Wilfred Ndidi is set to re-establish himself as one of the league’s top midfielders. Ndidi, who played 32 games and scored four goals last season, will be central to Leicester’s plans as they aim to avoid another relegation struggle. His ability to disrupt opponents’ play and initiate counter-attacks will be essential in anchoring Leicester’s midfield.
### **Taiwo Awoniyi (Nottingham Forest)**
Taiwo Awoniyi, who struggled with injuries last season, still managed to score six goals in 20 appearances for Nottingham Forest. This season, Awoniyi hopes to stay fit and fully showcase his abilities in the Premier League. His physical presence and aerial strength make him a formidable opponent for defenders, and a healthy Awoniyi could be the key to Forest’s aspirations of improving on last season’s survival.
### **Ola Aina (Nottingham Forest)**
Ola Aina was instrumental in Nottingham Forest’s survival last season, thanks to his versatility and solid defensive performances. Aina’s ability to contribute both defensively and offensively, particularly through overlapping runs and crosses, adds an extra dimension to Forest’s play. He will be looking to increase his goal contributions while maintaining his defensive reliability, crucial as Forest seeks to secure their status as a Premier League mainstay.
### **Emmanuel Dennis (Nottingham Forest)**
After a challenging season with limited playing time, Emmanuel Dennis is eager to re-establish himself as a key attacking threat for Nottingham Forest. The forward, who previously impressed with Watford by scoring 10 goals and providing six assists in the 2021/22 season, brings versatility to Forest’s frontline. Dennis will be looking to form a strong partnership with fellow Nigerian Taiwo Awoniyi and secure a regular spot in the starting lineup, as his pace, dribbling, and finishing could be vital to Forest’s success.
### **Joe Aribo (Southampton)**
Joe Aribo was a standout performer for Southampton during their Championship campaign, contributing significantly to their promotion. The midfielder’s technical skill and ability to hold up play will be crucial as Southampton looks to establish themselves in the Premier League. Aribo’s experience from European competitions with Rangers could be invaluable in navigating the challenges of top-flight football.
### **Paul Onuachu (Southampton)**
Paul Onuachu returns to Southampton with renewed determination after a successful loan spell at Trabzonspor, where he scored 15 goals in 21 appearances and won the league title. Onuachu, known for his aerial dominance and clinical finishing, will be crucial to Southampton’s attack under new manager Russell Martin. His goal-scoring prowess could provide the firepower needed for Southampton to secure their place in the Premier League following their promotion.
