Former Manchester City defender Nedum Onuoha has admitted that rejecting the chance to represent Nigeria national football team remains one of the biggest regrets of his career.
The ex-defender revealed he turned down multiple opportunities to switch allegiance while waiting for a senior call-up from England that never materialised.
Missed international opportunity
Onuoha, who represented England at youth level and captained the Under-21 side, was widely tipped for a senior breakthrough.
However, despite his progression through the ranks, the call never came.
Speaking on Sky Sportsâ In The Mixer podcast, he reflected on the decision that ultimately left him without a senior international appearance.
âLooking back on my career, there are lots of things where I wish I had done something differently⌠I regret not playing international football.â
Nigeria had actively pursued his commitment during a transitional period for the national team, but the defender opted to remain available for England.
Club priorities shaped decision
Onuoha explained that his focus at the time was firmly on establishing himself at Manchester City, particularly following the arrival of Roberto Mancini.
Increased competition, including the emergence of Dedryck Boyata, made first-team opportunities harder to secure.
âComing through the City academy⌠nothing was more important to me than playing for City.â
He also cited concerns about the timing of the Africa Cup of Nations, which could have affected his place at club side.
âGoing away for six weeks because of AFCON might not put me in a better position at City when I got back.â
Career without international cap
Despite a solid club career that included spells at Sunderland and Queens Park Rangers, Onuoha never earned a senior cap for England.
âI was put in the bracket of players that would rather beg to play for England than choose to play for Nigeria.â
He retired in 2020 after a 16-year professional career, acknowledging that his international decision remains a lasting regret.
