Frank Onyeka has openly declared his ambition to play for Manchester United one day, speaking candidly as he gears up for Nigeria’s crucial Africa Cup of Nations semi final against Morocco.
The Brentford midfielder, nicknamed “The Tank” for his relentless engine, revealed his dream in a fan video filmed in Morocco. “Of course I want to play for Manchester United,” the 28 year old admitted, sparking immediate chatter about his future. With just 15 months remaining on his contract at Brentford, the timing of his comments is sure to raise eyebrows.
Onyeka has been a powerhouse for the Super Eagles in Morocco, anchoring the midfield with a series of dominant displays. While not on the scoresheet, his breaking up of play and driving runs has been vital to Nigeria’s run to the last four. His form has been so impressive that Bees boss Keith Andrews will be desperate to have him back in West London next month.
But his focus is now squarely on Wednesday’s monumental clash with hosts Morocco. The task just got harder, with Wilfred Ndidi suspended due to yellow cards. Raphael Onyedika is expected to step in, but he lacks Onyeka’s physicality and defensive nous, meaning the Brentford man’s role in stifling Morocco’s creative threats is more critical than ever.
The United admission taps into a familiar story for Nigerian players. Fellow striker Odion Ighalo famously realised his childhood dream with a move to Old Trafford in 2020. However, at 28 and with no top six experience, Onyeka’s path to United is far from straightforward, it would take a remarkable offer and a serious show of faith.
For now, the dream is on hold. The immediate reality is a partisan crowd in Tangiers and an Atlas Lions side that has swept all before them. If Onyeka can produce another “Tank” like performance to help Nigeria past the hosts and into the final, his stock will rise even higher. And that can’t hurt the chances of a dream becoming reality somewhere down the line.
