Newly-signed Chelsea defender, Tosin Adarabioyo, has debunked widespread reports suggesting he turned down an opportunity to play for Nigeria, stating categorically that he has never rejected the chance to represent the Super Eagles.
The 27-year-old centre-back made the clarification following Chelsea’s emphatic 4-1 win over Real Betis in the final of the UEFA Europa Conference League. Speaking during a post-match interview, Adarabioyo addressed the lingering speculation surrounding his international future, especially with growing expectations among Nigerian football fans.
“There’s been a lot of talk and misinformation. I’ve never turned down Nigeria,” he stated. “And I’ve never had a conversation with anyone to say that I would be going to Nigeria either.”
Adarabioyo, who was born in London to Nigerian parents, is eligible to represent either Nigeria or England at senior level, having played for England at youth categories but yet to make a senior appearance. He explained that during his final season at Fulham, when brief talks reportedly surfaced, he made it clear that his sole focus was on club football due to the critical stage of his career.
“At the point last season where there was a little bit of conversation, I told them I just wanted to focus on club football,” he explained. “It was my last year at Fulham and I was determined to have a strong finish. Now I’ve moved to Chelsea, and I needed to concentrate on settling in during my first season.”
However, the towering defender hinted that the moment to decide on his international allegiance might be fast approaching. “And I think now is going to be the time that I need to make a decision,” he added, leaving the door open to potentially donning the green and white of Nigeria.
Adarabioyo’s switch to Chelsea from Fulham earlier in the season marked a significant leap in his career, and his performances have already begun to draw attention from both fans and pundits alike. With Nigeria’s national team in a phase of rebuilding ahead of major tournaments, his possible inclusion could prove a boost to the Super Eagles’ defensive options.
As the debate continues, Nigerian football enthusiasts remain hopeful that the London-born defender will opt to represent the country of his heritage on the international stage.
