The most influential Nigerian footballers in Serie A

The 12th edition of the Gran Galà del Calcio AIC took place in early December 2024 at Superstudio Maxi in Milan, bringing together the biggest names in Italian football. Organised by the Italian Footballers’ Association in collaboration with DA, Demetrio Albertini’s sports marketing and events agency, the ceremony celebrated the top performers of the Serie A, shining a spotlight on the league’s best talent.

One of the most anticipated moments of the evening was the announcement of the Best XI, honouring the standout players. Among the nominees was Ademola Lookman, the 27-year-old Nigerian striker who has been a key figure for Atalanta. Lookman’s stellar performances throughout the season earned him a well-deserved spot on the shortlist, cementing his reputation as one of the finest attacking talents.

Just a year earlier, Victor Osimhen made history as the first Nigerian to win the prestigious Footballer of the Year award, following a record-breaking season with Napoli. Osimhen’s
triumph, coupled with Lookman’s rise, marks an exciting era for Nigerian footballers in Italy, showcasing their immense talent

The Legacy of Nigerian Footballers in Serie A

Nigerian footballers have long been making their mark in Italy’s top league, excelling across various positions. Here are some of the most iconic Nigerian players to have graced Serie A:

• Victor Osimhen: Napoli (2020-2021, 2021-2022, 2022-2023, 2023-2024)
• Taribo West: Inter Milan (1997-1998, 1998-1999, 1999-2000), AC Milan (1999-2000)
• Obafemi Martins: Inter Milan (2001-2002, 2002-2003, 2003-2004, 2005-2006)
• Simeon 'Simy' Nwankwo: Croton (2016-2017, 2017-2018, 2020-2021), Salernitana (2021-2022), Salerno (2023-2024) 
• Ademola Lookman: Atalanta (2022-2023, 2023-2024, 2024-2025)
• Nwankwo Kanu: Inter Milan (1996-1997, 1997-1998, 1998-1999) 
• Sunday Oliseh: Reggiana (1994-1995), Juventus (1999-2000) 
• Taye Taiwo: Milan (2011-2012, 2012-2013) 
• Victor Moses: Inter Milan (2019-2020) 
• Ogenyi Onazi: Lazio (2011-2012, 2012-2013, 2013-2014, 2014-2015, 2015-2016)

Nigerian Serie A Players with the Highest Market Value (2024 Edition)

Nigerian footballers continue to be valuable talents in Serie A, as reflected in their market values:

1. Ademola Lookman – €40.00 million 
2. Samuel Chukwueze – €20.00 million 
3. Maduka Okoye – €7.50 million 
4. Fisayo Dele-Bashiru – €4.50 million 
5. Tyronne Ebuehi – €2.00 million 
6. David Ankeye – €2.00 million

From legends like Taribo West and Nwankwo Kanu to modern stars such as Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman, Nigerian football players have etched their names in Serie A history.

Their achievements inspire future generations while also creating exciting opportunities for sports bettors. If you're looking to back one of these stars, the top betting sites in Nigeria offer plenty of secure and exciting options.