Pinnick Reveals Why Eberechi Eze Missed Out on Super Eagles Switch

Former Nigeria Football Federation president Amaju Pinnick has explained why Arsenal attacking midfielder Eberechi Eze did not end up playing for the Super Eagles.

Eze, who came through the Queens Park Rangers academy, is now fully tied to England and was part of the Three Lions squad at the 2024 European Championship.

Nigeria first made a move for the talented midfielder in March 2017, when he was invited to train with the Super Eagles ahead of a friendly match against Burkina Faso. However, the game was later cancelled, denying Nigeria the chance to hand him a competitive appearance.

During his time as NFF president, Pinnick actively pushed for the recruitment of players with dual nationality. His efforts helped convince players such as Alex Iwobi, Ola Aina, Joe Aribo, Semi Ajayi and Josh Maja to choose Nigeria over England.

Pinnick said his interest in Eze grew stronger ahead of Nigeria’s 2022 World Cup play-off against Ghana. He revealed that he held a private meeting with the Crystal Palace star at his home in London to discuss a possible switch.

According to Pinnick, Eze was close to committing his international future to Nigeria before changes within the football federation disrupted the process. He said talks had progressed well and involved detailed discussions with the player and his family.

Pinnick explained that Eze, alongside his father and sister who manages his career, had agreed in principle, but asked for time as administrative changes and elections at the NFF took place. Soon after, Pinnick left office and the move did not progress further.

He added that Eze has a strong affection for Nigeria and was positive about representing the country.

Since making his senior debut for England in a European Championship qualifier against Malta, Eze has scored three goals in 16 appearances for the national team.