Real Sociedad forward Edna Imade has found herself at the centre of an international tug of war between Nigeria and Spain, as both nations intensify efforts to secure her international allegiance.
The 25-year-old striker, currently on loan from Bayern Munich, has been one of the standout players in the Spanish Liga F this season, scoring seven goals in her first seven appearances for Real Sociedad.
Edna Imade’s Rise in Spain
Imade’s impressive performances have not gone unnoticed. She was recently named the Liga F Player of the Month for October after scoring five goals in three games, including the decisive strike in Real Sociedad’s 1–0 win over Barcelona, a result that ended the champions’ 10-match unbeaten run.
Her clinical finishing and consistency have established her as one of the most reliable forwards in Spain’s top flight.
Nigeria’s Interest
Super Falcons head coach Justin Madugu confirmed that the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has made multiple attempts to contact Imade regarding her international future.
Speaking after Nigeria’s 1–1 draw against Benin Republic in their Women’s Africa Cup of Nations qualifier, Madugu revealed that efforts had been made through players and agents in Spain to connect with Imade and her representatives.
“I made approaches to Edna. We want her to come and play for Nigeria,” Madugu said. “I tried to reach out two or three times, to get feedback on her feelings about playing for Nigeria because I was aware some people, from her family, want her to play for Nigeria. But the agents around her, and the team she plays for, are really trying to see how they can get her to play for Spain. It’s not something we will decide. She has to take a decision for herself.”
SportPremi understands that the Nigeria Football Federation is still monitoring her situation closely.
Spain’s Growing Influence
Reports from Spain indicate that football authorities are working to fast-track Imade’s naturalisation process, with the aim of making her eligible to play for La Roja. The move aligns with Spain’s growing interest in foreign-born talents who have developed within the country’s football system.
Imade, who joined Real Sociedad on loan after a productive spell at Granada, is said to be considering her options carefully.
Family Ties and the Decision Ahead
Despite the external interest, Imade’s family members reportedly prefer that she represent Nigeria at the international level.
However, the final decision rests with the player, who holds a Nigerian passport but is also eligible for Spanish citizenship after several years in the country.
What’s Next
Edna Imade has not yet made a public statement regarding her international choice. For now, her focus remains on club duties with Real Sociedad, where she continues to play a key role in their strong start to the 2025/26 Liga F campaign.
She will be hoping to maintain her impressive form and help her team continue their push in the league.
Meanwhile, Nigeria’s Super Falcons have already secured qualification for the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations after defeating the Benin Republic 3–1 on aggregate.
With her growing reputation in Spain and international eligibility still open, Imade’s next move could define her footballing legacy, whether in green and white or red and yellow.
