Crystal Palace defender Honest Ahanor has exited the Italian national team camp, a move that keeps his hopes alive for a potential call-up to represent Nigeria. Ahanor was not selected for the squad preparing for the upcoming UEFA Nations League match against France, which has significant implications for his international career.

Born in Aversa, Italy, Ahanor has dual eligibility to play for Nigeria through his parents. His departure from the Azzurri camp means he will not become cap-tied to Italy during this international window, preserving his chance to switch allegiance to the Super Eagles. Currently, he has accumulated two senior caps for Italy, both of which were earned during friendly matches against Luxembourg and Greece.

Under FIFA regulations, players under the age of 21 can change their national team allegiance if they have not made more than three senior appearances. Ahanor is still within this limit, as he would need to play two more matches for Italy this month to reach the threshold that would cap-tie him to the Azzurri. His current situation leaves the door open for him to don the green and white of Nigeria should he decide to make the switch.

Ahanor was among nine players excluded from the travelling squad to Saint-Denis, alongside notable names such as Nicolò Cambiaghi and Rolando Mandragora. This decision reflects a broader strategy by the Italian coaching staff as they prepare for their match against France.

In contrast, another player of Nigerian descent, Michael Kayode, who plays for Brentford, has lost his eligibility to represent Nigeria after making his competitive debut for Italy in a recent match against Turkey. This serves as a reminder of the tight regulations governing international eligibility and the importance of timely decisions for players like Ahanor.

As he returns from Italy, Ahanor's future remains uncertain, but the possibility of representing Nigeria at the senior level is a prospect that many football fans will be watching closely. His performances at Crystal Palace and any potential call from Nigeria could shape his international career in the coming months.