The Super Eagles have received a significant boost ahead of upcoming international engagements, as Chelsea defender Tosin Adarabioyo is reportedly set to commit his international future to Nigeria, turning down the opportunity to represent England.
Adarabioyo, who joined Chelsea from Fulham last summer, has long been courted by the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) as part of efforts to strengthen the national team. Despite being eligible to represent England by birth and Nigeria through his parents, the Manchester City academy graduate had previously hesitated, particularly after his move to Stamford Bridge, believing it might enhance his chances with the Three Lions.
However, nearly a full season into his Chelsea career, Adarabioyo has yet to receive a call-up to Gareth Southgate’s England squad, despite four international windows passing by. This situation appears to have influenced his decision to finally embrace his Nigerian heritage on the international stage.
According to reports from Sports Boom, the NFF has scheduled a decisive meeting with Adarabioyo in London at the conclusion of the European season. Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle, who is spearheading efforts to overhaul the team’s defence, views Adarabioyo as a vital addition ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers and the upcoming Unity Cup.
Fresh Defensive Blood for the Super Eagles
With senior defenders William Troost-Ekong, Semi Ajayi, and Kenneth Omeruo nearing the twilight of their international careers, Adarabioyo’s commitment comes at a crucial time. The Chelsea man could potentially form a formidable partnership with his former Fulham teammate, Calvin Bassey, as Chelle looks to inject fresh energy into the backline.
Past attempts to secure Adarabioyo’s allegiance under former managers Augustine Eguavoen (2022) and Jose Peseiro (2023) were unsuccessful. However, with Eric Chelle’s persistence and the strategic timing, the NFF is optimistic of finalizing the deal this time.
Tosin Adarabioyo’s Chelsea Journey
Adarabioyo joined Chelsea on a free transfer after running down his contract at Fulham. Despite interest from other Premier League heavyweights like Newcastle United and Manchester United, he chose Stamford Bridge to further his career.
This season, he has made 33 appearances across all competitions – Premier League, FA Cup, Carabao Cup, and the UEFA Europa Conference League – starting 26 matches and completing the full 90 minutes in 23 of them. Impressively, he has found the net four times, showcasing his threat during set pieces.
While some performances, notably the 2-1 loss to Liverpool at Anfield where he narrowly escaped a red card for a professional foul on Diogo Jota, attracted criticism, Adarabioyo has generally been praised for his leadership qualities and consistency at the heart of Chelsea’s defence.
Nigerian Roots and Super Eagles’ Expectations
In a recent interview, Adarabioyo spoke openly about his Nigerian heritage, revealing he was raised “the Nigerian way” despite being born and bred in England. From the food to the culture, he considers himself deeply connected to his roots, a factor that seems to have influenced his latest decision.
Nigerian journalist Ero Osaze highlighted the significance of Adarabioyo’s commitment, saying:
“Anything that will give Eric Chelle and Nigeria a World Cup ticket will be appreciated. I think his quality as a defender compared to the current crop in the Super Eagles is a notch higher. He brings experience, stability, and quality – qualities that the Super Eagles desperately need.”
As Nigeria gears up for a busy schedule, including the Unity Cup and crucial World Cup qualifiers, Tosin Adarabioyo’s decision to represent his ancestral home could not have come at a better time.
