Popular Chelsea defender reportedly eyeing Super Eagles switch

• Tosin Adarabioyo, born in England to Nigerian parents, is reportedly considering a switch to play for Nigeria
• The Chelsea defender has represented England at youth levels but hasn’t received a senior call-up
• Eguavoen mentioned that “every Nigerian worldwide has the right to play for Nigeria, including Tosin”

As whispers grow louder about Chelsea defender Tosin Adarabioyo potentially switching his international allegiance from England to Nigeria, interim Super Eagles coach Austin Eguavoen has spoken out. 

The 27-year-old defender, born in England to Nigerian parents, has represented England at youth levels but is yet to break into Gareth Southgate’s senior squad. With his omission from the Euros squad, Adarabioyo may be reconsidering his options, making the switch to Nigeria seem increasingly likely.

Tosin Adarabioyo’s football journey saw him rise through Manchester City’s academy before a brilliant season at Fulham paved the way for a move to Chelsea. Despite his strong form, he has never received a senior call-up for the Three Lions, prompting speculation about his future. Speaking on Adarabioyo, Eguavoen confirmed that the Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) is keeping an eye on the situation, though he has not personally reached out to the player.

“I didn’t speak with Tosin, but he’s a good player, he’s one of the players we’re monitoring. Every Nigerian playing worldwide has the right to play for Nigeria, including Tosin.”

Should Adarabioyo commit to Nigeria, he could strengthen the national team’s defensive line alongside experienced defender William Troost-Ekong, ahead of key AFCON games. His addition would provide Nigeria with a major boost as they prepare for crucial games, including a double-header against Libya in two weeks.

Adarabioyo last featured for England’s youth side in November 2015 against Japan. A calm presence in possession and aggressive out of it, his Premier League stats speak volumes, averaging 2.56 tackles and interceptions per 90 minutes last season. 

Having played alongside current Super Eagles stars like Ola Aina, Alex Iwobi, Calvin Bassey, and Ademola Lookman at club level would undoubtedly ease his transition into the national team.

Having earned praise from Pep Guardiola during his time at Manchester City, with his former manager stating, 

“He’s fast, strong in the air, and has the quality to look forward behind the line for the next pass,” For Eguavoen, getting a player of Adarabioyo’s calibre in Nigeria’s arsenal could make all the difference in Nigeria’s upcoming fixtures.

Eguavoen retains Super Eagles interim role as AFCON qualifiers loom

Previously, TheRadar reported that the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has confirmed that Augustine Eguavoen will continue as interim head coach of the Super Eagles. His appointment was finalised after a recommendation from the NFF’s Technical and Development Sub-Committee, extending his leadership over Nigeria’s quest for a spot in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

The NFF disclosed this through an official statement on X (formerly Twitter) on Thursday, emphasising that Eguavoen’s guidance would be crucial in the upcoming qualifiers.