For the first time in over two decades, Arsenal F.C. are Premier League champions again. And at the center of the historic moment are three Nigerian-heritage stars: Bukayo Saka, Eberechi Eze and Noni Madueke.
Arsenal officially secured the 2025/2026 Premier League title after Manchester City dropped points late in the title race, ending the North London club’s 22-year wait for league glory under manager Mikel Arteta.
For many Nigerians online, the victory felt even more personal because some of the club’s most important attacking players this season were either Nigerian-born or of Nigerian descent.
Bukayo Saka once again remained one of Arsenal’s biggest stars throughout the campaign. Having risen from Arsenal’s Hale End academy into one of world football’s most recognizable young talents, Saka played a major role in the club’s consistency, leadership and attacking identity during the title-winning season.
Eberechi Eze, who joined Arsenal from Crystal Palace, also produced several defining moments during the campaign. One of the biggest came in the North London Derby, where he scored a hat-trick against Tottenham Hotspur — becoming the first Arsenal player in the Premier League era to achieve the feat in the rivalry.
Meanwhile, Noni Madueke added depth, pace and versatility to Arsenal’s attack after arriving from Chelsea. The winger contributed important goals and rotational energy across multiple competitions as Arsenal pushed through one of the most competitive title races in recent years.
The achievement also continues a long relationship between Nigerians and Arsenal Football Club.
Over the years, several Nigerian players have either played for Arsenal or been closely connected to the club, including Nwankwo Kanu, one of the most beloved African players in Arsenal history. Kanu won two Premier League titles and two FA Cups with the club and remains famous for his legendary hat-trick against Chelsea in 1999.
Other Nigerian players connected to Arsenal over the years include Alex Iwobi, who came through Arsenal’s academy before becoming a first-team regular, as well as players like Kelechi Nwakali and Semi Ajayi, who spent time within Arsenal’s system at different stages.
Now, a new generation of Nigerian-linked players has helped return Arsenal to the top of English football.
And for many fans online, seeing Saka, Eze and Madueke celebrating together after Arsenal’s biggest achievement in years felt like another reminder of how deeply Nigerian talent continues to shape global football.
Written by Folasade Abimbola
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