Rayan Oyebade is reportedly set to switch allegiance from Nigeria to Greece, joining the Greece U19 team as his international future unfolds

Rayan Oyebade may be set to represent Greece internationally, leaving Nigeria on the verge of losing another promising talent.

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The 17-year-old West Ham United U21 defender, born to a Greek mother and Nigerian father, is eligible for both nations.

Reports suggest that Oyebade has expressed his intention to switch allegiance to Greece, with the Greece Football Federation (EPO) expected to complete the process shortly.

Once approved, Oyebade will be available for selection to the Greece U19 team under coach Vangelis Moras.

Oyebade joined West Ham United in 2021 and has steadily progressed through the youth system.

A composed, left-footed centre-back, he is admired for his calmness on the ball and keen reading of the game.

He made his youth international debut for England U15, showcasing versatility and technical ability early on.

During the 2023/24 season, Oyebade featured 13 times in the U18 Premier League South, scoring a goal and providing an assist despite injury setbacks.

Now in his second year as a scholar, he has captained Lauris Coggin’s U18 side on several occasions and played a pivotal role in West Ham’s Premier League Cup final victory at Reading.

His performances earned him his first professional contract with the club on April 3, 2025—a clear indication of his growing reputation.

With Greece acting swiftly to secure Oyebade’s international future, Nigeria faces the prospect of missing out on yet another defensive gem with dual eligibility.

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The development serves as a reminder of the fierce competition for young talent in international football.