Bayer Leverkusen's rising star, Nathan Tella, has been handed a momentous debut call-up to the Super Eagles squad ahead of the highly anticipated 2026 World Cup qualifying matches against Lesotho and Zimbabwe. The 24-year-old forward, who has showcased his prowess in four appearances for the German side this season, now stands on the brink of representing Nigeria on the global stage.
Born in England to parents of Nigerian descent, Tella's football journey took root in the Arsenal Academy at a young age. After a decade of honing his skills at the prestigious club, he made a significant move to Southampton in 2017, setting the stage for his remarkable ascent in the football world.
Tella's inclusion in the Super Eagles squad marks a pivotal moment in his career, a culmination of years of hard work and dedication. His commitment to wearing the green and white jersey was evident in an earlier interview where he expressed his deep connection to Nigeria, despite his English upbringing.
"I've always said for the last three or four years that Nigeria is a big part of my life, even though I've been an 'England boy' from London all my life," Tella shared. "If I got the chance to play for Nigeria, I would be more than happy and accept it. You're not just nominated like that. You have to work for it and earn it. I want to prove myself here if I get the chance to play."
Tella's journey to this point has been marked by significant milestones, including a successful loan spell at Burnley during the 2022-2023 season, where he showcased his goal-scoring prowess with an impressive tally of 19 goals in 45 games. This stellar performance caught the attention of many, ultimately leading to his notable £20 million transfer to Bayer Leverkusen under the guidance of renowned coach Xabi Alonso.
As the Bundesliga table-toppers gear up for the World Cup qualifiers, Tella's inclusion adds a fresh dynamic to the Super Eagles' lineup. The forward's versatility, skill, and goal-scoring ability position him as a valuable asset for Nigeria's campaign.
