Younger Brother of Former Nigeria International Striker Released by West Brom

West Bromwich Albion have released their retained and released list for the 2025–2026 season, with six players of Nigerian descent affected by the club’s decisions, including the departure of cap-tied United States international Daryl Dike. The 25-year-old striker, who has Nigerian heritage, will leave the club when his contract expires on June 30, 2026, after four-and-a-half seasons at The Hawthorns. During his time with the Baggies, Dike made 68 appearances across all competitions, scoring 11 goals. He is the younger brother of former Super Eagles striker Bright Dike, who scored in a friendly against Italy in November 2013, and also the sibling of ex-Super Falcons forward Courtney Dike, known for scoring the fastest goal in FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup history.

Alongside Dike, forwards Dan Chimeziri and Adam Okorodudu have also been released by West Brom. The club has, however, extended new contract offers to one-cap Nigeria international Josh Maja and goalkeeper Brian Okonkwo, who is the younger brother of Super Eagles hopeful Arthur Okonkwo. These moves reflect the club’s ongoing efforts to reshape its squad ahead of the next season. Maja, who has represented Nigeria at the senior level, remains a key figure in the club’s attacking options, while Okonkwo’s retention highlights the importance of goalkeeping depth.

Another Nigerian-linked player, academy product Jamaldeen Jimoh-Aloba, has returned to his parent club, Aston Villa, after his loan spell at West Brom came to an end. His return signals the end of his development phase at The Hawthorns, as he continues his football journey under the guidance of Villa’s youth setup. The decisions made by West Brom are part of a broader restructuring process aimed at aligning the squad with the club’s long-term ambitions in the Championship and beyond.

The release of Dike and his fellow Nigerian-descent players marks a significant moment for West Brom’s Nigerian connections, which have been a part of the club’s identity in recent years. The club’s handling of these transitions will be closely watched by Nigerian football fans and scouts alike, as players like Maja and Okonkwo remain under contract and could play pivotal roles in the upcoming season. As West Brom look to rebuild and strengthen, the future of these players—both those departing and those staying—will be key to the club’s progress in the coming months.