Nigerians and Other Africans Who Have Represented Manchester United

While the club is traditionally known for its English stars and global superstars, African players have also played a part in the story of the Red Devils, though not as much. 

In this article, we will take a look at the Nigerians and other African players who have represented Manchester United, what they achieved at Old Trafford, and how they are remembered today.

Ighalo made history in January 2020 when he became the first Nigerian to play for Manchester United. His arrival surprised many fans, as he joined the club on loan from Chinese club Shanghai Shenhua. However, Ighalo quickly won hearts with his passion, work rate, and love for the badge.

He scored five goals in all competitions during his loan spell, including memorable strikes in the Europa League and FA Cup. 

Though he was mainly used in cup games and off the bench, Ighalo’s impact was emotional and symbolic, as he fulfilled his childhood dream and gave Nigerian fans a moment of pride. His contract ended in early 2021, but his time at United was short, sweet, and unforgettable.

Fortune was one of the first African players to make a name for himself at Manchester United. The South African midfielder joined the club in 1999 from Atlético Madrid and spent seven years at Old Trafford.

Fortune was a reliable and versatile squad player. He played in midfield, left-back, and even left-wing when needed. Though he was not a regular starter, Sir Alex Ferguson trusted him in big games. He was part of the team that won the Premier League title in the 2002/03 season and made over 120 appearances for the club in all competitions.

Fortune’s attitude, discipline, and work ethic made him a fan favourite. He remains a respected figure in the club’s history and has even returned in coaching roles after retirement.

Bailly became the first Ivorian to play for Manchester United when he joined from Villarreal in 2016 for around £30 million. The centre-back impressed early on with his strength, speed, and fearless tackling. Under José Mourinho, Bailly helped United win the EFL Cup and Europa League in 2017.

However, injuries and inconsistent form affected his time at Old Trafford. Though he had moments of brilliance, he never fully established himself as a first-choice defender. Bailly spent time on loan at Marseille before leaving the club in 2023.

While he did not reach his full potential, Bailly’s passion and commitment were never in doubt.

Diallo is one of the most exciting young African talents to sign for Manchester United. Born in Ivory Coast, Amad joined the club in January 2021 from Atalanta in a deal worth up to £37 million.

Though still developing, Amad has shown glimpses of his quality. After several loan spells, he finally established himself in the team under Ruben Amorim in 2024-25, earning a new deal for his impressive performance.

United fans are hopeful that Amad can become a star in the coming years. He has the skill, pace, and vision to succeed, and his journey is just beginning.

Senegalese striker Mame Biram Diouf joined Manchester United in 2009 from Norwegian club Molde. He was signed as a promising talent and scored on his home debut against Burnley.

However, Diouf found it hard to break into the first team. With tough competition for attacking spots, he made just nine appearances and scored only once for United. He was loaned to Blackburn Rovers before eventually leaving for Hannover in Germany.

Though his time at the club was brief, Diouf still made history as one of the few Senegalese players to wear the red shirt.

Zaha was born in Ivory Coast but grew up in England and represented the Three Lions at senior level before switching back to his country of birth. Zaha joined Manchester United in 2013 from Crystal Palace in a highly anticipated move.

He was Sir Alex Ferguson’s final signing before retiring, but sadly, Zaha never had the chance to work with the legendary manager. Under David Moyes, he struggled to get game time and was loaned out to Cardiff City and back to Palace. He only made four appearances for United before returning to Palace permanently.

Though things did not work out at Old Trafford, Zaha went on to become a star in the Premier League and a key player for the Ivorian national team.

Mejbri is a young midfielder of Tunisian descent who joined Manchester United’s academy from Monaco in 2019. He impressed with his energy, creativity, and tenacity in midfield and was touted as a future star.

He made his senior debut in 2021 and was involved with the first team in pre-season tours and cup matches. He also featured for Tunisia at the 2022 FIFA World Cup. However, after loan spells at Birmingham and Sevilla, he eventually signed for Burnley on a permanent deal in 2024.

John Obi Mikel was one of those that could have been at Manchester United and perhaps become the greatest African player to represent the Red Devils.

He famously signed a contract with Manchester United in 2005 and was even pictured holding the shirt. However, a long transfer saga followed, and the move never happened. 

Chelsea eventually signed him after settling a deal with both United and his previous club, Lyn Oslo. Though he never kicked a ball for United, his case remains one of the most talked-about transfer stories involving a Nigerian and Manchester United.