Nigeria Football Federation is closely monitoring Dundalk forward Gbemi Arubi, a 21-year-old talent with strong ties to Nigeria, as he becomes a key target for the Super Eagles ahead of future international competitions. Born in Dublin, Arubi is eligible to play for Nigeria through his Nigerian parents and holds a Nigerian passport, making him a valuable prospect for the national team. However, the Football Association of Ireland (FAI) is also vying for his allegiance, having previously included him in their U19 squad for friendlies against Iceland in June 2022. Although he has not featured for Ireland recently, the FAI has renewed its interest following his standout performances for League of Ireland Premier Division side Dundalk.
Arubi’s technical ability, pace, and goal-scoring instincts have drawn comparisons to Manchester City’s Ghanaian forward Antoine Semenyo, highlighting his potential at the highest levels. As a product of the Shelbourne academy, he has developed into a versatile and dynamic attacker capable of playing with both feet and contributing in multiple ways. This season alone, he has scored five goals and provided three assists in 19 appearances across all competitions, showcasing his consistent impact on the pitch. His performances have not gone unnoticed, with several European clubs, including teams in Belgium, reportedly showing interest in signing him during the upcoming summer transfer window.
The Nigeria Football Federation is keen to secure Arubi’s international future, recognizing his talent and the importance of adding young, high-potential players to the national team setup. His eligibility through Nigerian heritage gives the NFF a strong case, especially as he remains open to representing the Super Eagles despite Ireland’s efforts. The race to sign him internationally is now a strategic one, with both federations working behind the scenes to convince the young forward of their vision and commitment. Arubi’s decision could have long-term implications for Nigeria’s attacking options, particularly as the country looks to rebuild and strengthen its squad for upcoming qualifiers and tournaments.
As the football world watches closely, Arubi’s next move—whether on the pitch or in the international arena—could mark the beginning of a promising chapter for Nigerian football. His development continues to attract attention, and with the right guidance, he may soon become a key figure in Nigeria’s quest for continental and global success.
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