How do Nigerians identify with England soccer hero Bukayo Saka?
Bukayo Saka is one of the breakout stars of the European soccer championships. Although he wears an England jersey, he is also increasingly popular in Nigeria. The 19-year-olds exciting, efficient performances have been crucial in the Three Lions unprecedented journey to the final. A photo of him grinning on an inflatable unicorn in the pool has become the stuff of internet memes, and his teammates speak highly of his personality and influence. He was also an A-grade student at school. Saka was born and raised in west London to Nigerian parents. He played for England in various age groups, but naturally, his talent also caught the attention of Nigerian fans and soccer administrators. It didnt hurt that he was playing for Arsenal, a club that already has a strong Nigerian following because of the legendary Nwankwo Kanu. Many dreamed of Saka one day donning Nigerias white and green. But it was not to be. In what was dubbed Independence Day heartbreak, the versatile attacker announced his decision to represent England on October 1, 2020  the 60th anniversary of the West African nations independence from Great Britain. There was a mixed reaction. Some wondered what could have been if hed chosen Nigeria; others hailed him for picking a country that offers greater stability than Nigerias uncertain soccer environment. Europes African-origin superstars  Given the diversity of its major cities and the number of immigrants that settle in the UK, England has numerous young players, many of African origin, who could play for more than one country. This also applies to many other European countries, where some of the best French, Portuguese, and even German players have roots in Africa. The Chelsea duo of Tammy Abraham and Fikayo Tomori had already joined the list of players that could have chosen Nigeria over their birthplace, England. Nigerias soccer boss, Amaju Pinnick, who had developed a penchant for hunting dual-nationality players across Europe, failed in his overtures to Abraham, with his methods drawing criticism from the media. Where it failed with Saka, Abraham, and Tomori, Nigeria has succeeded in luring other dual-national Londoners: Alex Iwobi and Victor Moses have made the switch in recent years. Dual-national players who choose Nigeria either claim a strong Nigerian connection, or hint at the Super Eagles being their second choice. Its a tricky dilemma, because family roots can be a powerful force. But unfortunately, Nigerias soccer development is miles away from Englands, and its national team isnt the catch it once was; a third-place finish at the last African championship is an isolated bright spot. Both, actually  Identity is a tricky thing. Though he has Nigerian parents and was no doubt raised in a household with strong influences from their home country, Saka is also English through and through, having grown up in London. He has never even visited Nigeria. I feel like Im really, really proud of my Nigerian heritage, Saka said when he chose England. I always still watch Nigerias games where I can, and I wish them all the best and support them all the way. But Ive seen the process of how England is transforming and I think in the future theyre going to do great stuff. I feel like it was right for me to choose England.  For now, Nigerian media outlets are just about covering Sakas feats. And the fans are reveling in the fact that a young Nigerian is running the best defenders in the world ragged, and could help England win its first European trophy. It is something they can identify with, but with a tinge of regret. Barring any injuries, Saka is poised to start in the European Championship final, as the first player of Nigerian origin, and as the youngest English player. Should England win, newspapers, TV channels, and digital outlets in Nigeria will be full of adulation. Success has many relatives, far and wideand back home.