The Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2023 will bring together a spectacular array of talent from across the globe, including players eligible for other countries who jettisoned the chance to play for other teams for the opportunity to play at AFCON.

Here's a look at some key players who are contributing to their national teams at AFCON 2023 when they could easily have been elsewhere.

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Alex Iwobi

 

A central figure for Nigeria, Iwobi's versatility and technical prowess, honed in the Premier League with Arsenal, were key assets for the Nigerian team.

After coming through Arsenal’s famed academy, Iwobi was primed to play for England’s Three Lions after representing three English youth international teams, but his ties to Nigeria, in the form of his uncle, Super Eagles legend Jay Jay Okocha, convinced him to switch international allegiance.

Sebastien Haller

Sebastien Haller, representing Ivory Coast, brought his goal-scoring abilities and physical presence to the forefront, reflecting his experiences in the Bundesliga, Eredivisie, and the Premier League.

Inaki Williams

Opting to play for Ghana, Inaki Williams' speed and attacking capabilities, showcased at Athletic Bilbao in La Liga, have added a dynamic element to the Ghanaian squad.

Williams had represented Spain’s youth teams as well as the Basque national team before choosing to become a Ghanaian international just before the 2022 FIFA World Cup, where he played all three matches for the Black Stars.

Houssem Aouar

Before joining AS Roma in the summer of 2023, Houssem Aouar's creative midfield role for Lyon in Ligue 1 was expected to translate into playmaking excellence for the French national team, but he is now an asset for Algeria’s Fennec Foxes.

Ola Aina

Nigeria’s Ola Aina's adaptability in defence demonstrated at several clubs in his career, made him a valuable asset for the Super Eagles, contributing to the team’s defensive and attacking efforts from his full-back role.

Before opting to become a Super Eagle, Aina had played for England’s youth teams, including the under-16, under-17, under-18, under-19 and under-20 levels.

 

The involvement of these players in AFCON 2023 not only highlights their skills but also underscores their commitments to their national teams and their willingness to connect with their countries of origin despite being born elsewhere.

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Source: PULSE

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