Tella Targets Super Eagles Return
The Bayer Leverkusen forward, now fully fit after a season disrupted by three separate injuries, says a Super Eagles recall remains his biggest ambition heading into the new campaign.
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Nathan Tella has expressed his desire to return to the Super Eagles fold, having not featured for Nigeria since the 2025 Unity Cup.
The 27 year old has made just two appearances for Nigeria since making his debut in 2023, with injuries repeatedly limiting his involvement with the national team.
Speaking to Rheinische Post, Tella said returning to the national side is something he wants, admitting it had been frustrating to watch Nigeria miss out on the World Cup and to miss so many of the qualifying matches himself. He said playing for Nigeria again remains his dream heading into the new season.
Tella endured a difficult campaign last term, dealing with three separate injuries that kept him out for almost 30 matches. Despite the setbacks, Bayer Leverkusen showed continued faith in him, extending his contract until 2031 back in March.
Reflecting on his recovery, he said he feels good after a restful summer break that allowed him to return to full fitness, adding that while the injury spell was frustrating, he wants to turn that experience into something positive this season.
Did You Know?
- Nathan Tella made his Super Eagles debut in 2023 and has earned just two caps since.
- He last played for Nigeria at the 2025 Unity Cup.
- He dealt with three separate injuries last season, missing almost 30 matches for Bayer Leverkusen.
- Bayer Leverkusen extended his contract until 2031 in March, despite his injury struggles.
- Tella is 27 years old and plays as a forward.
- Nigeria missed the 2026 FIFA World Cup after losing in the African play-offs.
- Tella previously played in England before moving to Bayer Leverkusen in Germany.
