Millwall FC has refused to release winger Femi Azeez for Nigeria’s upcoming international friendlies against Poland national football team and Portugal national football team, dealing a setback to the Super Eagles ahead of the June international window.
The Championship club exercised their right under FIFA regulations, citing the fact that Azeez was not included in the original squad submitted by Nigeria before later being considered as a possible addition.
Strong Start to International Career
The 24-year-old winger recently pledged his international future to Nigeria despite being eligible to represent England and Spain.
Azeez made an immediate impact for the Nigerian national football team, scoring twice on his senior debut against Zimbabwe national football team during the Unity Cup.
Despite that impressive display, coach Eric Chelle did not initially include the winger in his official squad list for the June fixtures.
Breakout Season Raises Profile
Azeez is coming off the best season of his professional career after producing 11 goals and eight assists in 37 appearances for Millwall during the 2025/26 campaign.
His performances earned him a place in the Championship Team of the Season and significantly increased his reputation as one of the most exciting attacking talents outside the Premier League.
Premier League Clubs Monitoring Situation
The winger’s impressive form has reportedly attracted interest from several top-flight clubs, including Brighton & Hove Albion, AFC Bournemouth, Aston Villa, and Crystal Palace.
Reports also suggest Millwall recently turned down a £20 million offer from Ipswich Town, with the London club believed to value Azeez significantly higher.
The player has made no secret of his ambitions.
“The Premier League is obviously the pinnacle of football. I’d love to play in the Premier League. So obviously, working hard, I’m going to do whatever I can to get there,” Azeez said in a recent interview.
Focus Shifts to Club Future
Millwall’s decision reflects their determination to protect one of their most valuable assets amid increasing transfer speculation.
For Nigeria, Azeez’s absence removes an exciting attacking option from Chelle’s squad, although the Super Eagles still boast established stars such as Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman.
Having joined Millwall from Reading FC in 2024, Azeez has enjoyed a rapid rise, and the upcoming transfer window could prove pivotal in determining the next stage of his career.
