FIFA Clears German-Born Defender Felix Agu to Represent Nigeria
German-born defender Felix Nnaemeka Agu has been officially cleared by FIFA to represent Nigeria in international football.
The confirmation was shared via the official social media channels of the Super Eagles, announcing that the 24-year-old Werder Bremen star is now eligible to wear the green and white jersey of Nigeria.
According to a post on the Super Eagles’ Facebook page on Saturday, the German Football Association (DFB) confirmed that Agu never featured in any official match—senior or youth—for Germany. His only involvement came in two friendly matches with Germany’s U21 side in 2019, which did not tie him to the European nation under FIFA rules.
“The German FA has written to confirm that the player has never represented them in any official match at both senior and junior levels,” the statement read.
Who is Felix Agu?
Born in Germany to Nigerian parents, Agu has long been on the radar of the Nigerian football community. He emerged from the youth ranks of VfL Osnabrück before earning a move to Bundesliga side Werder Bremen in 2020.
Agu made his Bundesliga debut against Bayern Munich in November 2020 and has since evolved into a versatile full-back, praised for his speed, tactical awareness, and attacking ability. He had a solid 2024–25 season, scoring three goals in 22 appearances. His consistent performances prompted Bremen to extend his contract in 2022, solidifying his role in the team.
Set for Unity Cup Debut?
Although it remains unclear whether Agu will feature in any matches, he has been invited to train with the Nigerian squad ahead of the upcoming Unity Cup tournament in London. Nigeria is scheduled to face Ghana in the second semifinal on May 28 at the Gtech Community Stadium. The tournament also features Jamaica and Trinidad and Tobago.
Mixed Fan Reactions
News of Agu’s clearance sparked diverse reactions from Nigerian football fans online. While many see his inclusion as a valuable boost ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, others have expressed concerns about relying too heavily on foreign-born players.
“So many talented players are wasting in Nigeria undiscovered, yet we keep searching for ready-made players abroad,” wrote one Facebook user, Prince Washington.
Others, however, welcomed the decision.
“Speed and aggression with skills. Far better than our current right back,” said another user, Oluwafemi Omoyeni.
Another Addition to Germany-to-Nigeria Pipeline
Agu joins a growing list of German-born players who have chosen to represent Nigeria, embracing their African heritage and seizing opportunities for international exposure. Notable names include Leon Balogun, Kevin Akpoguma, Jordan Torunarigha, and Felix Uduokhai.
Most of these dual-nationality players featured for German youth teams before switching allegiance, often citing national pride, cultural ties, and a desire to compete on the global stage with Nigeria.
