In a season where creativity is key, two Super Eagles stars have emerged as Nigeria’s finest playmakers in Europe’s top leagues. While many expected the likes of Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman to make the list, it’s Alex Iwobi and Moses Simon who have stood out, ranking among the top 50 key passers in European football.

Iwobi: Fulham’s Creative Engine

At Fulham, Alex Iwobi has been a force to be reckoned with. The former Arsenal midfielder has registered 46 key passes in 25 Premier League matches, placing him 17th in Europe. His contributions include 43 chances created, seven goals, and three assists, showing his growing influence in Fulham’s attack. With 90 touches in the opposition’s box and 37 shots taken, Iwobi has proven to be a crucial link in the final third.

Moses Simon: The Assist King of France

Over in Ligue 1, Nantes winger Moses Simon continues to prove his worth. Ranked 39th on the list, Simon has delivered 40 key passes in 20 league games. His creative brilliance has led to seven assists, making him the French league’s top provider, along with five goals. Despite playing for a mid-table side, Simon’s ability to unlock defenses has been remarkable.

No Room for Osimhen or Lookman?

Notably absent from the rankings are two of Nigeria’s biggest stars—Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman. Osimhen, who has been on fire in Turkey with 14 goals and four assists for Galatasaray, was overlooked due to the rankings only considering Europe’s top five leagues. Lookman, despite scoring 10 goals and assisting five times for Atalanta, didn’t make the cut, with Serie A’s most creative players being Genoa’s Aarón Martín (47 key passes) and Como’s Gabriel Strefezza (42).

Europe’s Key Pass Kings

Topping the European rankings is Barcelona’s Raphinha with 69 key passes, followed by Villarreal’s Álex Baena (68) and Reims’ Junya Ito (67). Chelsea’s Cole Palmer (66) and Tottenham’s Dejan Kulusevski (60) also feature in the top five. Other notable names include Bayern’s Joshua Kimmich (57), Liverpool’s Mohamed Salah (54), and Manchester United’s Bruno Fernandes (53).

Nigerian Roots Shine Through

Beyond Iwobi and Simon, several players of Nigerian descent have also made the rankings. Crystal Palace’s Eberechi Eze and Bayern Munich’s Michael Olise both recorded 45 key passes, ranking just behind Iwobi at joint 18th. Arsenal’s Bukayo Saka also features in 32nd place with 42 key passes, highlighting the growing influence of players with Nigerian heritage in European football.

While Nigeria’s biggest attacking stars may not have made the list, Iwobi and Simon continue to fly the Super Eagles’ creative flag high, proving that vision and playmaking are just as vital as goals.