Chelsea’s Tosin Adarabioyo has sparked fresh excitement among Nigerian football fans after clarifying that he has not ruled out the possibility of donning the Super Eagles jersey. The 27-year-old centre-back, who recently played a pivotal role in Chelsea’s UEFA Conference League triumph, addressed long-standing rumours about his international future. Insisting he has never rejected Nigeria and is now closer than ever to making a decision.
Adarabioyo, born in London to Nigerian parents, has represented England at the youth level. Amassing 14 caps across the U16 to U19 age groups. Despite his early promise and a steady rise through the Manchester City academy, where he captained youth teams and became the youngest City player to start a Champions League match, Adarabioyo has yet to receive a senior England call-up. His club career has since taken him from Manchester City to Fulham, and now to Chelsea. At Stamford Bridge, he has established himself as a key figure in the Blues’ defence. Recording four goals and 13 clean sheets in 37 appearances this season.
Adarabioyo addressed the speculation by stating that reports of him turning down Nigeria were false. He clarified that he has never rejected an offer from Nigeria, nor has he had discussions indicating an intention to play for them. His primary focus in recent years was on his club career. Particularly during contract negotiations and his initial season at Chelsea. However, he now acknowledges that the time is approaching for him to decide on his international future.
The NFF has long monitored Adarabioyo. Hoping to inject youth and quality into a defensive line that features several veterans nearing the twilight of their careers. William Troost-Ekong, Leon Balogun, Semi Ajayi, and Kenneth Omeruo are all over 30. Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle is actively seeking to rejuvenate the squad.
Adarabioyo’s attributes, like his height, aerial prowess, and composure on the ball, make him an ideal fit for Chelle’s evolving side. His partnership with his former Fulham teammate Calvin Bassey could provide Nigeria with a formidable and modern defensive pairing as they prepare for upcoming campaigns.