5 things to know about Nigerian-born Nathan Butler-Oyedeji playing for Arsenal

Born to a Nigerian father and a Vincentian mother, Nathan Butler-Oyedeji is the latest product of Arsenal’s Hale End academy.

This promising forward recently made headlines with his senior debut in Arsenal’s UEFA Champions League victory over Dinamo Zagreb and also being called up in the matchday squad against Wolves on Saturday.

Here are five key things to know about Nathan Butler-Oyedeji:

1. He Comes from a Rich Sporting Heritage

Born on January 4, 2003, in Walthamstow, East London, Nathan Butler-Oyedeji has a diverse background. His father, Taju Oyedeji, was a footballer who earned a scholarship at Crystal Palace but didn’t secure a professional contract. Nathan inherited his father’s passion for football, blending it with a heritage that includes a Nigerian father and a Vincentian mother. His name reflects this dual identity, with “Butler” from his mother’s side and “Oyedeji” from his father’s.

2. A Product of Arsenal’s Hale End Academy

Nathan joined Arsenal’s academy at the age of 8 and signed his first professional contract in 2021. After a series of loans to Accrington Stanley and Cheltenham Town, he finally got his big moment on January 22, 2025, debuting in Arsenal’s 3-0 UCL victory over Dinamo Zagreb. His journey included 11 prior call-ups to the first team, and his persistence paid off when he impressed with 8 goals and 6 assists in the 2024/25 Premier League 2 season.

3. International Eligibility and Potential

Though born in England, Nathan is eligible to represent Nigeria, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, and England internationally. Despite being uncapped at youth or senior levels, his strong form and Nigerian heritage make him a potential future star for the Super Eagles or the Three Lions.

Born to a Nigerian father and a Vincentian mother, Nathan Butler-Oyedeji is the latest product of Arsenal’s Hale End academy.

This promising forward recently made headlines with his senior debut in Arsenal’s UEFA Champions League victory over Dinamo Zagreb and also being called up in the matchday squad against Wolves on Saturday.

Here are five key things to know about Nathan Butler-Oyedeji:

1. He Comes from a Rich Sporting Heritage

Born on January 4, 2003, in Walthamstow, East London, Nathan Butler-Oyedeji has a diverse background. His father, Taju Oyedeji, was a footballer who earned a scholarship at Crystal Palace but didn’t secure a professional contract. Nathan inherited his father’s passion for football, blending it with a heritage that includes a Nigerian father and a Vincentian mother. His name reflects this dual identity, with “Butler” from his mother’s side and “Oyedeji” from his father’s.

2. A Product of Arsenal’s Hale End Academy

Nathan joined Arsenal’s academy at the age of 8 and signed his first professional contract in 2021. After a series of loans to Accrington Stanley and Cheltenham Town, he finally got his big moment on January 22, 2025, debuting in Arsenal’s 3-0 UCL victory over Dinamo Zagreb. His journey included 11 prior call-ups to the first team, and his persistence paid off when he impressed with 8 goals and 6 assists in the 2024/25 Premier League 2 season.

3. International Eligibility and Potential

Though born in England, Nathan is eligible to represent Nigeria, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, and England internationally. Despite being uncapped at youth or senior levels, his strong form and Nigerian heritage make him a potential future star for the Super Eagles or the Three Lions.

4. Playing Style Inspired by Legends

Butler-Oyedeji’s father encouraged him to study clips of Thierry Henry, shaping his development as a versatile and pacey forward. Nathan also admires Ronaldinho, whose flair influences his creative style. Comfortable as a striker or winger, he is known for his work rate, sharp movement, and clinical finishing—qualities that have made him a standout at the youth level.

5. He’s Following in the Footsteps of Other Anglo-Nigerians at Arsenal

Nathan joins the likes of Bukayo Saka, Ethan Nwaneri, and Miguel Azeez as Nigeria-eligible players making their mark under Mikel Arteta. His senior debut solidifies Arsenal’s reputation for nurturing players with Anglo-Nigerian roots who excel at both club and international levels.

Nathan Butler-Oyedeji’s story is just beginning, and with the right opportunities, he could become a key figure for Arsenal and a force to reckon with on the international stage. Fans will undoubtedly be watching closely as he continues to grow.