Former Chelsea Midfielder Lesley Ugochukwu Set to Dump France, Switch International Allegiance to Nigeria

Former Chelsea midfielder Lesley Ugochukwu is reportedly on the verge of switching his international allegiance from France to Nigeria, a move that could see him represent the Super Eagles in future competitions.

The 22-year-old, who was born in France to Nigerian parents, is said to have begun the process of changing his sporting nationality after failing to earn a senior call-up for the French national team.

Ugochukwu represented France at various youth levels but has yet to make a competitive appearance for the senior team, leaving him eligible to play for Nigeria under FIFA’s nationality-switch regulations.

According to reports, the midfielder spent part of his summer holiday in Nigeria, where he was spotted playing football in Owerri alongside Super Eagles forward Kelechi Iheanacho. His visit has further fueled speculation that he is serious about representing the three-time African champions.

The midfielder is also believed to have commenced the process of obtaining a Nigerian passport, a key step in completing his switch to the Super Eagles.

If the move is finalized, Ugochukwu would become another foreign-born player of Nigerian descent to commit his international future to Nigeria, strengthening the Super Eagles’ midfield options ahead of upcoming international competitions.

Known for his physical presence, composure on the ball and ability to shield the defence, Ugochukwu is regarded as one of the promising young midfielders in European football. His potential arrival would provide additional depth and competition in Nigeria’s midfield as the team prepares for future Africa Cup of Nations and FIFA World Cup qualifiers.

Neither the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) nor the player has officially confirmed the nationality switch, but reports suggest discussions and the necessary administrative processes are already underway.