Rising Star in Arsenal’s Academy Faces Tough Choice

Andre Harriman-Annous, one of Arsenal’s brightest young prospects, is at a crossroads in his budding career. The 17-year-old striker, hailed as one of the most exciting players of Nigerian descent in the club’s academy alongside Ethan Nwaneri, has been turning heads with his exceptional performances this season. Yet, the Hale End Academy graduate finds himself wrestling with a significant decision—choosing which nation to represent on the international stage.

Harriman-Annous, who has already netted an impressive 11 goals across all competitions in the 2024-25 season, is eligible to play for three nations. Born in England, he also holds ties to Nigeria through his mother, Josephine Harriman, a prominent investment banker, and to Ghana through his father.

Speaking on The Sports After Party Podcast, the prolific teenager shared candid thoughts on his international dilemma. “I haven’t decided yet. I haven’t been called up either,” he admitted. “At youth level, you can play for who you like—it doesn’t really matter. I haven’t thought about the first-team side yet.”

However, Harriman-Annous noted the challenges dual-national players face, particularly when it comes to England. “So many people think there’s not the same opportunity at England as there is at Nigeria or Ghana. If more people would play for a country like Nigeria or Ghana, the team would actually be good,” he said, emphasizing the potential for growth in African football.

Using Arsenal graduate Eddie Nketiah’s career as a cautionary tale, Harriman-Annous highlighted the limited opportunities England sometimes offers young talents. “For example, Nketiah—one of the top U21 goalscorers for England—and he’s not in the first team. So, is there a point of being called up for England if you’re just going to get to U21s or U19s and stop?” he questioned.

The teenager, who scored on his debuts in the UEFA Youth League, FA Youth Cup, EFL Trophy, and U18 Premier League Cup, seems focused on one priority: consistent senior-level football. “The most important thing is to actually play consistently for your country, whether it is Nigeria, Ghana, or England.”

Harriman-Annous’s thoughts echo those of Super Eagles captain William Troost-Ekong, who has actively recruited dual-national players like Ademola Lookman, Nathan Tella, and Bright Osayi-Samuel to Nigeria’s ranks. His decision, when made, could have a lasting impact on his career and the team he chooses to represent.