As the UEFA Champions League embarks on a new season with an innovative Swiss Format, featuring a single-league system where each team faces eight different opponents, Nigerian players are ready to make their mark. The top eight teams will advance to the knockout stage, while those finishing in the 9th to 24th positions will compete for a spot in the round of 16. Teams ranked 25th or lower will be eliminated without a chance to enter the UEFA Europa League.
Nigerian footballers have historically excelled in this prestigious tournament, following in the footsteps of legends like Finidi George, Kanu Nwankwo, and John Mikel Obi. Here’s a look at the Nigerian players participating in this season’s Champions League:
Nigerian Players in 2024/2025 UEFA Champions League
1. Victor Boniface (Bayern Leverkusen)
Boniface was instrumental in Bayern Leverkusen’s historic Bundesliga title win, securing their place in the Champions League.
2. Samuel Chukwueze (AC Milan)
Having previously lifted the Europa League with Villarreal, Chukwueze aims to help AC Milan advance further after their last group stage exit.
3. Nathan Tella (Bayern Leverkusen)
Although Tella may not be a regular starter, his skills are valuable to the team, and he looks forward to making an impact in the Champions League.
4. Ademola Lookman (Atalanta)
The current African Player of the Year, Lookman, will be crucial for Atalanta after shining in last season’s Europa League final.
5. Raphael Onyedika (Club Brugge)
After missing a transfer to Galatasaray, Onyedika aims to reclaim his midfield position as Club Brugge embarks on their Champions League journey.
6. Elvis Isaac (Slovan Bratislava)
Despite not participating in the qualifying matches, Isaac may see action this season due to the demanding tournament structure.
7. Victor Olatunji (Slavia Prague)
Olatunji played a key role in leading Slavia Prague to the Champions League group stage for the first time in 19 years, following success in the Czech league.
8. Peter Olayinka (Red Star Belgrade)
Olayinka is looking to build on his two goals this season, aiming to elevate Red Star Belgrade’s performance after last season’s struggles.
9. George Ilenikhena (AS Monaco)
Ilenikhena will forever be remembered in the history of Royal Antwerp for his late goal against Barcelona last year to secure a 3 – 2 win, first win for Royal Antwerp in the UCL in their first appearance in the competition. Now at AS Monaco, Ilenikhena will be playing in the UCL this season.
10. Victor Eletu (AC Milan)
A promising young talent, Eletu has made the UCL squad and is eager to gain valuable experience at this elite level.
With these talented Nigerian players on the field, fans can look forward to an exciting season in the Champions League.
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