Nathan Tella has set his sights on a return to the Super Eagles after recovering from an injury-hit season at Bayer Leverkusen, according to an interview with German newspaper Rheinische Post.
The 27-year-old winger returned to full training ahead of the new Bundesliga campaign after missing almost 30 matches with three separate injuries. He now hopes to force his way back into Eric Chelle’s plans before Nigeria begin their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign.
“I want to return to the national team,” Tella said.
“Of course, it was very frustrating that Nigeria were not at the World Cup and that I missed many of the qualification games.
“Now, a new season and a new opportunity begin. Playing for Nigeria again is my dream.”
Tella last played for Nigeria during the 2025 Unity Cup. Injuries kept him out of contention for much of Chelle’s first months in charge.
Nathan Tella Faces Tough Competition In Super Eagles Attack
Tella will have to earn his place.
Ademola Lookman remains one of Nigeria’s first-choice attackers after another strong spell in Europe. Samuel Chukwueze also remains in contention, while Moses Simon continues to offer experience on the left flank.
Femi Azeez has also joined the list of attacking options available to Chelle.
Tella brings another quality to the squad. He can play on either wing, operate behind the striker or lead the attack when needed.
“There are times when I would like to be fixed to one position, but being versatile means my chances of playing are automatically greater,” Tella said.
“My wish is naturally to collect as many minutes as possible.”
Fitness Will Shape Nathan Tella’s Super Eagles Chances
Tella has made staying fit his main target for the new season.
He wants to avoid another stop-start campaign after injuries disrupted his progress at both club and international level.
“The goal now is to remain injury-free. I do not want to play one good game and then miss the next five again. I need more consistency in my fitness and, consequently, in the number of games I can play in succession,” he said.
Bayer Leverkusen backed the Nigeria international despite his injury problems by extending his contract until 2031 earlier this year.
Regular football in the Bundesliga will give Tella the chance to strengthen his case for a Super Eagles recall as Nigeria prepare for the 2027 AFCON qualifiers and the next phase of their 2030 FIFA World Cup campaign.
