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Nnodim: Contract Extension and Naturalization?

Daniel Nnodim is challenging Reinhold Ranftl at Austria. And he's doing it well. This has not gone unnoticed by the ÖFB.

Nnodim: Contract Extension and Naturalization? Photo: © GEPA

Daniel Nnodim is the biggest surprise of Austria's season so far.

The 18-year-old has featured in three of the five competitive matches played so far, two of them from the start.

No Easy Feat

This is no easy feat, as he plays the true wing-back position, where various challengers have struggled to dislodge Reinhold Ranftl in recent years.

But Nnodim, who went into the season as Ranftl's backup alongside Marijan Österreicher, impressed with strong performances in pre-season and is now a key part of Stephan Helm's rotation.

"He Did an Outstanding Job"

Particularly in the 2-1 victory against Beitar Jerusalem in the Conference League qualifiers, the youngster made his mark with a good performance, including an assist.

"He did an outstanding job," praises Sporting Director Tomas Zorn.

Steep Learning Curve

The talent's learning curve is steep. In the academy, he was actually trained as a central defender; only later did the Violets convert him into a wing-back for the right side.

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Aufsteiger, nicht nur im Flugzeug
Foto: ©GEPA

In his first season with the Young Violets, Nnodim quickly established himself in the starting lineup; 24 appearances, 19 from the start, and three assists were recorded in 2025/26.

Talks about New Contract Underway

He was already rewarded in December when he received a new contract until summer 2027. Given his strong start to the season, Austria now wants to quickly extend his deal.

Last week, the sporting management of the Violets held the first talks with the player, who joined the club in the U14s, and his agent. A concrete offer is expected next week.

Sports boss Zorn is confident: "We are on a very good path to continue our cooperation."

Naturalization a Strong Possibility

The ÖFB has also now taken notice of Nnodim. The Austrian-born player was born and raised in Vienna, but because his mother is German, he also holds German citizenship.

According to LAOLA1 information, the ÖFB is considering Nnodim's naturalization. The youngster is not averse to the idea, but there has been no direct contact yet.

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You can find the original LAOLA1 article here.