Following his dazzling display for Hellas Verona on Saturday, Michael Folorunsho has ignited discussions about his potential inclusion in the Nigerian national football team.
The 26-year-old midfielder, born in Italy to Nigerian parents, scored a wonder goal against Juventus that drew comparisons to Zinedine Zidane’s iconic strike against Bayer Leverkusen in the UEFA Champions League final.
Folorunsho’s journey to this point has been marked by perseverance and determination.
After spending three years in Lazio’s youth academy without securing a senior team spot, he started his professional career at Virtus Francavilla in Serie C in 2017.
He eventually caught the eye of Napoli scouts, who brought him to the Serie A club in 2019.
Loan deals with various clubs, including Bari and Pordenone, helped him develop into a formidable player.
Last season, Folorunsho’s standout performance in Serie B, scoring eight goals for Bari, nearly propelled the club to Serie A.
Determined to prove himself at the top level, he joined Hellas Verona for the 2023–24 season and has seamlessly adapted to Serie A, making 24 appearances and contributing three goals and one assist.
The highlight of Folorunsho’s recent performances was a stunning goal against Juventus, reminiscent of Zidane’s legendary volley.
— UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) July 9, 2019
Zinédine Zidane's spectacular volley in the 2002 final!
The first time he lifted the #UCL… https://t.co/MMuICEBvP7 pic.twitter.com/MQGarfsUuh
Folorunsho, who also scored a fine goal against AS Roma last month, added an assist in the second half as Hellas Verona secured a thrilling 2-2 draw with Juventus.
With Italy not recognising his talents on the international stage, the question now arises – is Folorunsho the missing piece in the Super Eagles’ midfield puzzle?
Does the Super Eagles need Folorunsho?
Born to Nigerian parents in Italy, Folorunsho remains eligible to represent Nigeria internationally.
Recent events at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations in Cote d’Ivoire have underscored the need for a player with Folorunsho’s attributes in the Super Eagles midfield.
Nigeria finished as runners-up after losing 2-1 in the final against the host nation.
In the absence of top-quality midfielders to execute coach Jose Peseiro’s preferred 4-3-3 style, the Super Eagles laboured to adapt to a 3-4-3 formation throughout the tournament.
Injuries to key players like Wilfred Ndidi and the unavailability of Oghenekaro Etebo left Nigeria lacking physical presence during the AFCON.
Alex Iwobi, tasked with a deeper midfield role, struggled to fill the void.
Folorunsho’s versatility, capable of playing as a defensive midfielder, central midfielder, or even an attacking midfielder, could provide the needed dynamism.
Known for his defensive contributions, creativity, and eye for goal, Folorunsho boasts a style that aligns with what the Super Eagles need.
Despite not being a top-notch passer, his ability to recover possession and link up with the striker ahead of him could complement Nigeria’s attacking verve, particularly alongside top striker Victor Osimhen.
As preparations for the next AFCON begin, the question lingers – should Nigeria call up Folorunsho during the next international window?
The potential addition of this Serie A-based star could be a crucial element in shaping the Super Eagles into African champions once again.
NB: Do you think Nigeria should call up Folorunsho during the next international window? Leave your comments below:
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