Former Chelsea striker Afolayan looks forward to featuring for Nigeria at next World Cup

FORMER Chelsea striker Oladapo Afolayan has revealed that he is looking forward to breaking into the Super Eagles squad ahead of the 2026 World Cup as he opts for Nigeria ahead of his country of birth at international level.

Afolayan, 27, is currently playing for German side St. Pauli, who gained promotion to the Bundesliga this season and has had a decent run in the side. He joined St Pauli from Bolton in January 2023 in a €600,000 deal and has played a vital role in their promotion from Bundesliga Two, contributing nine goals and three assists in 31 appearances.

This season, Afolayan has produced two goals and one assist in 12 appearances, as St Pauli sit 15th in the German top flight. On the international scene, Afolayan is recognised as an English player, as he was born and bred there in the UK and spent his formative years at Chelsea.

He has never represented Nigerian on any level but he is hoping that his recent performances can earn him a place in the Super Eagles squad for the next World Cup in 2026. With the league now entering its second half, Afolayan is hopeful that improved performances will attract the attention of the Nigerian Football Federation.

Afolayan said: “I want to kick on again, play international football. Play for Nigeria at the next World Cup and hopefully as long as my performances keep being strong and improving, then I’ll do that.”