Highly-rated Nigerian winger Zadok Yohanna has been forced to miss the Super Eagles squad for the ongoing Unity Cup despite receiving his maiden senior national team invitation from head coach Eric Chelle.
The 18-year-old AIK star was one of the surprise inclusions in Nigeria’s squad after enjoying a breakthrough campaign in Sweden, where his performances have attracted attention from several European clubs.
Yohanna had been expected to use the Unity Cup as an opportunity to make his senior debut for the Super Eagles, but the move was halted after AIK decided not to release the youngster for the tournament in London.
The Swedish club confirmed that the decision was influenced by the player’s ongoing rehabilitation from a recent injury, while also stressing his importance to the team during a crucial stage of the season.
The development came as a setback for Eric Chelle, who had included the teenage sensation as part of his plans to inject fresh talent into the national team setup ahead of future competitions.
Yohanna has emerged as one of the most exciting young Nigerian players in Europe this year. The Bauchi-born attacker has impressed with his pace, creativity and eye for goal since breaking into AIK’s first team, quickly establishing himself as one of the club’s standout performers.
His rapid rise earned him a first senior Super Eagles invitation, with many supporters eager to see him link up with the national team for the first time.
Although he will not feature at the Unity Cup, the winger remains firmly on Nigeria’s radar, and there is growing belief that another opportunity could arrive in the coming international windows once he fully recovers.
For now, the focus remains on returning to full fitness with AIK as he continues his development in Sweden and pushes to secure a future place in the Super Eagles squad.
Super Eagles newcomer Zadok Yohanna has missed Nigeria’s Unity Cup squad despite receiving his first senior call-up. Here is why the AIK winger will not feature for Eric Chelle’s side.
