Daryl Dike has opened up on his decision to represent the United States Men’s National Team (USMNT) instead of the Super Eagles, revealing that the choice was shaped by opportunity, timing and his upbringing.
The powerful striker, who is of Nigerian heritage, discussed his international allegiance on the ‘Beast Mode On’ podcast, explaining why he committed his future to the United States despite strong family ties to Nigeria.
Dike was born in Edmond, Oklahoma, and progressed through the American football system, starring for the Virginia Cavaliers in college before earning his professional breakthrough in Major League Soccer with Orlando City. His rise later earned him moves to Europe, including a loan spell at Barnsley and a permanent switch to West Bromwich Albion, where injuries have disrupted his progress.
At international level, Dike made his senior debut for the United States in 2021 and has gone on to earn 10 caps, featuring at the CONCACAF Gold Cup.
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However, the striker could have pursued an international career with Nigeria. His brother Bright Dike and sister Courtney Dike both played for the Super Eagles and Super Falcons respectively, while former Nigeria striker Emmanuel Emenike is also his cousin.
Dike admitted that representing Nigeria was once his expectation.
“When I was younger, that was the thing – you’re going to be part of the Super Eagles,” he said. “My brother was trying to get me to play with Nigeria. When I was younger, to be honest, I fully thought, ‘I’m playing for Nigeria.’”
That changed when opportunities opened up with the USMNT during his rise in MLS.
“When I went to MLS and started playing, the USA called me. I remember talking with my brother and my family, and they were like, ‘You know if you play with the USA, you’re not going to be able to play with Nigeria.’ I was like, ‘Yeah, I still want to do it.’ At the end of the day, it’s your decision.”
The 24-year-old explained that the depth of attacking talent in Nigeria also influenced his thinking, alongside the appeal of the USMNT project.
“Nigeria has tons of phenomenal strikers. Who knows if I would even have been called by Nigeria?” he said. “Then I’m looking at the USA and thinking they’ve got an exciting squad – Tyler Adams, Christian Pulisic, Weston McKennie, Sergiño Dest. I’m like, ‘I can be part of this.’ It’s an honour and I want to be a part of this.”
Despite choosing the United States, Dike acknowledged the emotional pull of Nigeria and the pride his family holds in his career.
“Back in Nigeria, people would have loved for me to represent the Super Eagles. My parents would potentially rather have me represent Nigeria as well, but they’re always going to be proud of what I do,” he added. “Everybody is just happy to see me succeeding at the highest level.”
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