Osayi-Samuel Reveals Why He Chose Nigeria Over England

Osayi-Samuel Reveals Why He Chose Nigeria Over England

Sampson Adedeji

Super Eagles and Birmingham City defender, Bright Osayi-Samuel, has explained the reasons behind his decision to represent Nigeria at international level instead of England, BSNSports.com.ng reports. 

The 28-year-old, who has become a key figure in the Super Eagles setup, said his strong cultural upbringing and deep connection to Nigeria played a major role in his choice.

 “My friends have also asked me the same question,” Osayi-Samuel said on OmaSportsTV.

 “I was strongly influenced by my country, with my dad and mum exposing me to Nigerian culture attending Nigerian weddings, enjoying the food and everything. Playing in England, you start to play with players who represent their own countries, and you begin to understand the importance of international football.”

He admitted that many people believe representing England is the bigger opportunity, but insisted the emotional connection and unity within the Nigerian team is unmatched.

 “When it comes to how the team works together and the overall feeling, I don’t think you’d notice that kind of connection if you were playing for England. In the Nigeria setup, everyone is having fun. You never see any bad feelings even players who aren’t playing are smiling and excited about the game and training. This is one of the reasons I will always choose Nigeria first,” he said.

Osayi-Samuel also revealed that his positional switch to right-back played a role in his international breakthrough.

He explained that the change began during his time at Fenerbahçe and later aligned with his Super Eagles call-up.

“It was when I signed with Fenerbahçe that they wanted me to play as a right-back. At first, I didn’t like it, but over time I started learning more about the position. Then I got the chance to play for Nigeria, and I thought, if this is how I get to represent my country, I’ll take it because I’ve always dreamed of playing for Nigeria,” he added.

He further stressed that representing Nigeria is a source of pride for his family and a way to give back to relatives and supporters back home.

“Nigeria is a country that my mum and dad are really proud of, and I’m proud of it too. Tournaments like AFCON give me the chance to give something back. The love and messages I’ve received from people back home have been really amazing,” Osayi-Samuel said.

Osayi-Samuel made his Super Eagles debut in a high-profile international friendly against Portugal and has since gone on to earn 32 caps for Nigeria, establishing himself as a regular figure in the national team setup.