Tyronne Ebuehi says he has no regrets choosing to represent Nigeria in international football rather than the Netherlands.
The 22-year-old was born in Haarlem in the Netherlands to a Dutch mother and a Nigerian father, making him eligible to play for both nations.
The right-back made his debut for the Nigerian national team in June 2017 and was part of the Super Eagles squad at the 2018 World Cup, though he only appeared as a substitute in the win over Iceland.
“There’s absolutely no regrets, it was a big choice and one I can happily live with,” the defender told BBC Sport.
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“My father was born in Nigeria and he is from Benin City, which makes me half Nigerian. My mother is from Holland, so I am half Nigerian and half Dutch.
“Nigeria is one of the biggest football countries in Africa. I think it was a great opportunity for me to play for Nigeria.
“So I’m happy that I made this decision. I think it’s the best decision I have made in my football career.”
Ebuehi began his professional career at ADO Den Haag in the Eredivisie before signing a five-year deal in May to join Portuguese giants Benfica.
He also revealed that fellow Dutch-born defender William Troost-Ekong had played a ‘big role’ in his decision to play for the Super Eagles.
“Born in the same city [Haarlem] as me, Troost-Ekong gave me some advice and told me about the benefits of playing for Nigeria,” he said.
“As a big brother he had played for the Netherlands at junior levels before choosing Nigeria, so he also had a big role to play in my decision.”
Source: G Sport
