Super Eagles’ squad value shapes Nigeria’s AFCON ambition

Nigeria’s Super Eagles head into the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations with expectations shaped as much by market numbers as by history, as their current squad value places them at the centre of scrutiny ahead of the tournament kickoff.

Despite reaching the final of the last AFCON, Nigeria no longer commands the same financial dominance on paper. According to data from UK website sportscasting.com, the Super Eagles’ squad is valued at €286.55 million, representing an 18 per cent decline from the €349 million recorded before the previous edition. That drop has pushed Nigeria down the valuation rankings, even as they remain one of the competition’s most respected football nations.

The shift is largely influenced by changes in individual valuations, most notably Victor Osimhen. Once Africa’s most expensive player at €110 million, the Napoli striker is now valued at €75 million. While still Nigeria’s biggest asset and attacking focal point, the reduction reflects how form, injuries and club situations can alter perceptions quickly in the modern game.

Nigeria’s value, however, is not solely dependent on Osimhen. Ademola Lookman, valued at €40 million following his impressive displays with Atalanta, brings creativity and decisive quality. Premier League regulars Alex Iwobi and Calvin Bassey also contribute significant worth, adding experience, tactical flexibility and leadership that extend beyond raw market figures.

In comparison, Senegal arrive as the tournament’s financial heavyweights with a squad value of €449 million, while hosts Morocco follow closely on €438.65 million. Defending champions Ivory Coast sit on a relatively stable €339.03 million. Nigeria’s decline contrasts sharply with Cameroon’s resurgence, as the Indomitable Lions have recorded an 84.6 per cent increase to €254.4 million.

Yet AFCON history repeatedly shows that squad value does not guarantee success. For Nigeria, the challenge is to convert reduced market numbers into on-field authority. If the Super Eagles strike the right balance, their continental value may ultimately be defined by results rather than euros.

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