Following Taye Taiwo and Wilson Oruma: Super Eagles midfielder picks Marseille over Frankfurt, Lazio

Just as the January transfer window reached its frantic conclusion, Olympique de Marseille have confirmed the signing of Super Eagles midfield sensation Tochukwu Nnadi.

The 22-year-old, who became one of the darlings of the Nigerian football community during his breakout at AFCON 2025 in Morocco, joins the French giants from Belgian side Zulte Waregem in a deal reportedly worth €8 million.

Marseille manager Roberto De Zerbi has long been an admirer of Nnadi’s high-energy style. After a tournament in Morocco where Nnadi showed incredible qualities in ball recovery and transitional play, OM moved quickly to beat off competition from the likes of Eintracht Frankfurt and Lazio.

Nnadi’s ability to cover ground and his composure under pressure were key reasons the Super Eagles secured a podium finish, and Marseille see him as the long-term successor to provide steel and silk in their midfield.

Nnadi becomes the latest member of Nigeria’s "Next Gen" to move to a top-five European league following the tournament. 

His arrival in the South of France follows a path blazed by Nigerian legends like Taiwo and Wilson Oruma, and expectations are high that he will immediately challenge for a starting spot.

“I am happy to be here,” Nnadi said during his unveiling. “I am here to play football, to fight for the team.”

With Marseille pushing for a Champions League spot, Nnadi’s arrival provides a much-needed tactical boost. His lung-busting runs and defensive discipline make him a perfect fit for De Zerbi’s high-intensity system.