Austria Set To Hijack Nigerian Midfielder Ahead Of 2026 World

Austria Set To Hijack Nigerian Midfielder Ahead Of 2026 World Cup

Sampson Adedeji

Austria are intensifying efforts to persuade midfielder Carney Chukwuemeka to switch his international allegiance ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

Chukwuemeka, who has represented England at U19 and U20 levels, remains eligible to play for Austria and Nigeria, making him a key target as national teams position for the next World Cup cycle.

Born in Eisenstadt, Austria, to Nigerian parents, the former Chelsea and Aston Villa midfielder relocated to Northampton at a young age, where he later acquired British citizenship and progressed through England’s youth international ranks.

Sources indicate that Austrian football authorities have begun internal processes to engage the player’s camp, hoping to leverage his place of birth to secure his commitment before World Cup qualification intensifies.

While Nigeria have long been linked with a possible approach for Chukwuemeka, Austria’s proactive move could complicate the Super Eagles’ plans to integrate the highly-rated midfielder into their long-term project.

No official statement has been issued by the player’s representatives, but the race for Chukwuemeka’s international future is now shaping into a three-way contest as the 2026 World Cup approaches.