Nigeria continues to produce world-class soccer talent, with players dominating top leagues in Europe and beyond. From clinical strikers to rock-solid defenders, Nigerian players are making headlines in 2025. Here’s a look at the 10 best Nigerian soccer players this year, their achievements, and why they stand out.
1. Victor Osimhen – Forward (Galatasaray SK)
Victor Osimhen is Nigeria’s most lethal striker. After a controversial exit from Napoli, he reignited his career at Galatasaray, scoring 12 goals in 15 Süper Lig matches and leading his team’s attack. His speed, aerial ability, and composure in front of goal make him a nightmare for defenders.
- 2024/25 Stats: 12 goals, 4 assists
- Key Strength: Clinical finishing under pressure
- Career Highlight: Scored twice in Galatasaray’s 5-1 win over Kayserispor (December 2024)
Osimhen’s market value soared to €120 million after his move to Turkey, and he remains a key player for Nigeria’s national team.
2. Ademola Lookman – Winger (Atalanta BC)
Ademola Lookman has become a superstar in Serie A, leading Atalanta to a Europa League title in 2024. In 2025, he’s already scored 10 goals in 19 league games, with 5 assists. His creativity and flair earned him the 2024 African Player of the Year award.
- 2024/25 Stats: 10 goals, 5 assists
- Key Strength: Dribbling and creating chances
- Career Highlight: Hat-trick in Atalanta’s 4-0 win over Juventus (November 2024)
Lookman’s versatility allows him to play as a winger or second striker, making him indispensable for club and country.
3. Wilfred Ndidi – Midfielder (Leicester City)
Wilfred Ndidi is the backbone of Leicester City’s midfield. Known for his tackling and work rate, he’s played 239 career games for Leicester, helping them win promotion back to the Premier League in 2024.
- 2024/25 Stats: 89% tackle success rate, 3 assists
- Key Strength: Breaking up opposition plays
- Career Highlight: Named Leicester’s Player of the Season (2023/24)
Ndidi signed a contract extension until 2027, proving his loyalty and importance to the club.
4. Calvin Bassey – Defender (Fulham)
Calvin Bassey is one of the Premier League’s most reliable defenders. At Fulham, he’s played 23 matches in 2024/25, contributing to 4 clean sheets. His strength and versatility let him excel as a center-back or left-back.
- 2024/25 Stats: 85% aerial duel success, 1 goal
- Key Strength: Physicality and positioning
- Career Highlight: Key role in Fulham’s 2-1 win over Manchester United (January 2025)
Bassey’s market value has risen to €15 million, attracting interest from top clubs like Manchester City.
5. Alex Iwobi – Midfielder (Fulham)
Alex Iwobi brings creativity to Fulham’s midfield. With 7 goals and 3 assists this season, his dribbling and vision have been vital.
- 2024/25 Stats: 7 goals, 3 assists
- Key Strength: Playmaking and versatility
- Career Highlight: Scored a brace in Fulham’s 3-1 win over Brighton (December 2024)
Iwobi’s €31 million net worth reflects his success in England’s top flight.
6. Moses Simon – Winger (FC Nantes)
Moses Simon is a dynamic winger for Nantes in France’s Ligue 1. With 5 goals and 5 assists this season, his speed and crossing ability stand out.
- 2024/25 Stats: 5 goals, 5 assists
- Key Strength: Crossing accuracy (28% success rate)
- Career Highlight: Scored a last-minute winner against PSG (October 2024)
Simon’s consistency keeps him in Nigeria’s starting lineup for major tournaments.
7. Fisayo Dele-Bashiru – Midfielder (SS Lazio)
Fisayo Dele-Bashiru is a rising star at Lazio. The 24-year-old has 2 goals and 2 assists in Serie A, impressing with his energy and long-range shooting.
- 2024/25 Stats: 2 goals, 2 assists
- Key Strength: Box-to-box midfield presence
- Career Highlight: Scored a 30-yard screamer against AC Milan (January 2025)
Dele-Bashiru’s performances earned him a permanent move to Lazio from Hatayspor.
8. Kelechi Iheanacho – Forward (Sevilla)
Kelechi Iheanacho remains a top striker, now shining in La Liga with Sevilla. His clever movement and finishing have netted 9 goals this season.
- 2024/25 Stats: 9 goals, 2 assists
- Key Strength: Poacher’s instinct in the box
- Career Highlight: Hat-trick in Sevilla’s 4-0 win over Valencia (November 2024)
Iheanacho’s €35 million net worth makes him one of Nigeria’s wealthiest players.
9. Samuel Chukwueze – Winger (AC Milan)
Samuel Chukwueze uses his blistering pace to terrorize defenders at AC Milan. Though still adapting to Serie A, he’s contributed 4 goals and 6 assists this season.
- 2024/25 Stats: 4 goals, 6 assists
- Key Strength: One-on-one dribbling
- Career Highlight: Assisted the winner in Milan’s derby against Inter (September 2024)
Chukwueze’s €6 million net worth is set to grow as he establishes himself in Italy.
10. Victor Boniface – Forward (Bayer Leverkusen)
Victor Boniface overcame injuries to become Bayer Leverkusen’s main striker. He scored 8 goals in the first half of 2024/25, helping Leverkusen challenge for the Bundesliga title.
- 2024/25 Stats: 8 goals, 3 assists
- Key Strength: Aerial dominance and hold-up play
- Career Highlight: Scored a brace in Leverkusen’s 3-0 win over Bayern Munich (December 2024)
Boniface’s return from injury has been a boost for both club and country.
Bottom Line
From Victor Osimhen’s lethal finishing to Calvin Bassey’s defensive mastery, Nigerian players are thriving globally. These 10 stars represent the best of Nigerian soccer in 2025, inspiring fans and aspiring players worldwide. Their dedication, skill, and achievements continue to elevate Nigeria’s reputation as a powerhouse in world football.