Nigeria international Tochukwu Nnadi has revealed that former Chelsea FC midfielder N’Golo Kanté is the greatest player in football in his eyes – ahead of global icons Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo.
The 22-year-old, who currently plays for Olympique de Marseille, made the remark during a recent interview with the French club.
Nnadi has enjoyed a rapid rise in European football over the past two years. The midfielder moved from Botev Plovdiv in Bulgaria to Belgian side Zulte Waregem before securing a reported €6m transfer to Marseille during the January window.
Nnadi. Photo Credit: Imago
Despite arriving in France as a promising prospect, he faces strong competition for minutes in midfield from experienced players including Pierre‑Emile Højbjerg and Geoffrey Kondogbia.
Nnadi, a defensive midfielder known for his positioning, pressing and ball recovery, cited Kanté as the player he admires most.
The Frenchman built a reputation as one of football’s most effective ball-winning midfielders during his time at Chelsea, where his relentless work rate and ability to read play made him a key figure in the club’s major trophy successes
For Nnadi, whose role on the pitch centres on recovering possession and controlling the tempo from deep, the admiration reflects the influence Kanté’s style has had on his own game.
Nnadi’s development has also been recognised at international level.
He earned his first call-up to the Nigeria national football team squad for the Africa Cup of Nations in 2025 and made his senior debut in Nigeria’s final group-stage match against Uganda.
Photo Credit: Imago
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Since joining Marseille in January, Nnadi has yet to establish himself as a regular starter.
The club’s current midfield depth and competitive environment mean the Nigerian may need time before securing a consistent role.
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However, Marseille head coach Habib Beye has previously praised the young midfielder’s performances in training, suggesting he could earn more opportunities if he continues his development.
