Bayer Leverkusen sporting director Simon Rolfes has confirmed that Nigerian winger Nathan Tella has been named in the Super Eagles’ final squad for the 2026 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco. 

Tella, who only recently returned from injury, was named in Nigeria’s 54-man provisional squad released in December to begin preparations for the biennial tournament.

However, his limited game time since recovering, has raised concerns about his fitness, and cast doubt over his prospects of making the final squad.

Despite those concerns, Rolfes, as reported by Bild, confirmed that the former Southampton winger has made Nigeria’s final squad for the continental tournament.

He further disclosed that Leverkusen will be without Edmond Tapsoba, Ibrahim Maza, and Eliesse Ben Seghir during AFCON, adding that “Nathan is also leaving,” despite his recent return from injury.

Since returning from injury, Nathan Tella has played in six matches across all competitions, accumulating just 68 minutes of action.

Nigeria has been drawn in Group C alongside Tunisia, Uganda, and Tanzania as the Super Eagles aim to capture a fourth AFCON title in January 2026.

Meanwhile, head coach Eric Chelle is expected to unveil the official final squad soon as preparations for the tournament intensify.

Adeyemi Adewale