Newcastle United winger Jacob Murphy has reportedly turned down an international call-up from Nigeria, although sources close to the player suggest that a potential World Cup appearance could make him reconsider his stance.
As excitement builds ahead of next summer’s expanded World Cup in North America the biggest in history, with 48 nations set to compete several Newcastle players are expected to represent their countries on the global stage.
The Magpies’ presence at the tournament seems inevitable, with Bruno Guimarães almost certain to feature for Brazil under Carlo Ancelotti, while Anthony Gordon continues to impress for England.
Sandro Tonali is a key figure in Italy’s midfield, and the likes of Joelinton, Sven Botman, and Malick Thiaw are also pushing for national team selection.
However, recent reports suggest that another Newcastle star could be in line for a shock World Cup appearance though not for the nation most fans would expect.
Murphy, who was born in Wembley and has represented England at U21 level, is eligible to play for both Nigeria, through his father, and the Republic of Ireland, through his mother.
According to reports emerging from Nigeria, the Super Eagles recently approached him with an offer to join their national team setup, but he declined the invitation.
It is believed that Murphy was contacted by Nigeria’s coaching staff, led by manager Eric Chelle, as part of their efforts to strengthen the squad ahead of upcoming international competitions.
Sources indicate that Murphy politely turned down the latest offer, preferring to keep his options open for now. However, there’s growing belief that his decision could change if Nigeria secures qualification for the 2026 World Cup, which will be co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
The Super Eagles are currently fighting for their place in the tournament, with crucial qualification matches ahead against Gabon and DR Congo. Should Nigeria succeed, the chance to perform on football’s biggest stage could tempt Murphy to reconsider his international future.
This situation mirrors that of other Premier League players facing similar choices. Crystal Palace striker Eddie Nketiah, for instance, is reportedly being pursued by Ghana despite having already represented England in a friendly.
Nigeria’s pursuit of Murphy could also have been influenced by the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), but sources close to the player suggest that his interest lies primarily in competing at a World Cup rather than continental tournaments.
At 30 years old, Murphy remains optimistic about his chances of earning a senior England call-up. Having just completed one of the best seasons of his career, in which he ranked among the league’s top assist providers, the winger believes age should not be a barrier to international recognition.
Speaking earlier this year, Murphy expressed his ongoing ambition to wear the Three Lions shirt, drawing inspiration from teammate Dan Burn, who earned his England debut at 31.
“Dreams of playing international football can still be there,” Murphy said at the time. “Credit to the new manager for putting faith in Dan at such an age. Hopefully people at 30 aren’t being overlooked 30 is the new 25.”
Despite his consistent performances and growing influence under Eddie Howe, Murphy faces fierce competition in England’s wide areas, where the likes of Bukayo Saka, Jack Grealish, Phil Foden, and Jarrod Bowen remain ahead in the pecking order.
That reality could make Nigeria’s offer increasingly appealing, especially with the World Cup looming on the horizon.
For now, Murphy’s focus remains firmly on Newcastle’s campaign, where he has become an integral part of Howe’s system thanks to his tireless work rate, creativity, and improved end product.
But should Nigeria secure a spot in North America next summer, and should Murphy maintain his form, the chance to play on the world stage could prove too enticing to resist.
Whether he ultimately chooses to stay loyal to his England ambitions or embrace his Nigerian heritage, Murphy’s decision will be one of the more intriguing international stories in the months leading up to the 2026 World Cup.
For Newcastle fans, it’s a win either way proof of how far their players have come under Howe’s leadership and a reminder that St. James’ Park continues to nurture talents worthy of football’s biggest spotlight.
