FIFA has officially granted approval for the change in nationality for Arthur Okonkwo, the 22-year-old goalkeeper and former England youth international. Currently on loan at League Two side Wrexham from Arsenal, Okonkwo is now eligible to represent Nigeria on the international stage, having received FIFA’s endorsement for the switch.
Okonkwo’s last participation with the England U18s dates back over four years, indicating a potential alteration in his international allegiance. Super Eagles’ head coach Jose Peseiro reportedly approached Okonkwo in October 2023, expressing interest in having him for the AFCON, but ultimately opted for South African-based goalkeeper Stanley Nwabili.
With 26 appearances for Wrexham in various competitions and 11 clean sheets, Okonkwo has been making a notable impact during his loan spell. Born in London, United Kingdom, in 2001 to Nigerian parents, the goalkeeper’s approved nationality switch opens up new opportunities for him to represent Nigeria on the global football stage.