Porto’s Zaidu Assures Fans He’s Fully Behind the Super Eagles

Porto’s left-back Zaidu Sanusi has forcefully denied media claims suggesting he might decline a call-up to represent Nigeria at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco. He has reassured the Nigeria Football Federation, Super Eagles supporters and manager Eric Chelle that he remains fully committed and is ready to answer the call.

Sanusi last featured for Nigeria when he started in the 2023 AFCON final against Ivory Coast. Shortly after that, a cruciate ligament injury kept him out of action for eight months.

On his return, he struggled to reclaim a regular starting place at Porto, managing only six first-team appearances during the 2024–2025 season. Amid speculation that he might prioritise reviving his club career over international duty, he dismissed this outright declaring his availability “100 percent.”

Since taking charge, coach Chelle has favoured Bruno Onyemaechi and Ola Aina at left-back, which means Sanusi faces a tough battle to win back his place in the squad for the upcoming tournament.

Since making his debut in a friendly against Algeria five years ago, Sanusi has gone on to earn twenty-two caps for the Super Eagles.

Editorial

We take heart from how Zaidu Sanusi has quashed the rumours of a potential snub of national duty. His unequivocal statement that he is “100 percent available” strikes us as a vital affirmation of loyalty to the Super Eagles. Amid swirling speculation, such clarity strengthens unity in the squad.

There is no denying that his return from a serious cruciate ligament injury has been anything but smooth. Limited to six appearances for Porto in the past season, the challenge of regaining form is unmistakable. Yet, we believe that the very act of declaring his readiness to represent his country reflects more than fitness. It speaks of character.

Coach Chelle’s preference for Bruno Onyemaechi and Ola Aina in the left-back position presents Sanusi with a formidable obstacle. Still, competition can drive improvement. We feel that Zaidu’s resolve to fight for his place may not only benefit him but elevate the team’s depth.

We also consider the emotional dimension: fans draw inspiration from defenders who, despite adversity, come forward to shoulder responsibility. Zaidu’s commitment may well invigorate his teammates. We sense that his determination sends a message: personal setbacks will not deter national pride.

We remain convinced that this declaration of availability signifies a turning point. The defender’s stance may well be the spark that reignites his national career—and this collective optimism returns us to our initial thought: Zaidu’s allegiance has been reaffirmed with conviction, and that bodes well for Nigeria.

Did You Know?

1. Zaidu Sanusi previously represented Portugal’s powerhouse FC Porto during their journey to the Champions League semi-finals.
2. Before moving to Porto, he played for Santa Clara in the Azores, helping the club gain promotion to the Portuguese top flight.
3. The Super Eagles’ manager, Eric Chelle, is a former French centre-back turned coach, who took over the national team in 2025.
4. Zaidu’s 22 international appearances include featuring in both AFCON and World Cup qualifiers.
5. The 2025 Africa Cup of Nations will be hosted in Morocco, which previously hosted the tournament in 1988 and 2017.