Nigeria’s Flying Eagles have been handed a significant boost ahead of the 2026 WAFU B U20 Championship after fresh information emerged regarding the eligibility of midfielder Ebrima Manneh.
The Sporting Supreme Academy player recently became the subject of intense debate on social media after questions were raised about his nationality following his inclusion in Nigeria’s squad for the regional tournament. Some reports and online discussions claimed the midfielder had Gambian roots and was therefore ineligible to represent Nigeria under FIFA regulations.
The controversy quickly gained attention among football fans across West Africa, especially with the Flying Eagles preparing to defend their WAFU B title in Côte d’Ivoire.
Fresh details emerge
However, new information has now helped clear the air surrounding the player’s status.
According to the latest update, Manneh is eligible to represent Nigeria despite the concerns that surfaced online. The midfielder was included in coach Abdu Maikaba’s final squad after the necessary checks regarding his documentation and eligibility were carried out.
The development comes as a relief for the Flying Eagles technical crew, who consider Manneh one of the promising talents in the squad heading into the tournament.
His inclusion had generated attention not only because of the nationality debate but also because of his performances at youth level, where he has impressed scouts and coaches with his technical ability and maturity in midfield.
Timely boost for Flying Eagles
The timing of the clarification is particularly important for Nigeria.
The Flying Eagles have already arrived in Côte d’Ivoire and are preparing for what is expected to be a demanding tournament against some of the strongest youth teams in the region.
Any uncertainty surrounding player eligibility could have become a distraction, but the latest update appears to have settled the matter and allowed the team to focus fully on football.
Nigeria have been drawn in a challenging group and will be aiming to maintain their reputation as one of Africa’s leading youth football nations.
Chance to impress
For Manneh, the attention surrounding his nationality has overshadowed what could be an important tournament for his development.
The midfielder now has an opportunity to shift the conversation back to his performances on the pitch and help Nigeria pursue another successful campaign at youth level.
The WAFU B Championship has often served as a platform for emerging talents to announce themselves before progressing to bigger continental and global competitions. Several former Flying Eagles stars have used the tournament as a stepping stone to professional careers and senior national team recognition.
With the eligibility issue seemingly resolved, Manneh can now concentrate on making his mark in Nigeria colours and proving why he earned a place in Maikaba’s squad.
