Chelsea ace torn between England and Nigeria’s Super Eagles, but the 2026 World Cup will make the difference

Chelsea defender Tosin Adarabioyo has revealed that he will soon decide on which of England or Nigeria’s Super Eagles he will represent at international level, Soccernet.ng reports.

Adarabioyo was born in England to Nigerian parents. And just like most players with similar backgrounds, he represented England at youth level, as he played for under-16s Under-17s, under-18s, and under-19s.

But at the age of 27, he is yet to play senior international football. As such, he can still switch allegiance to Nigeria.

Will Tosin Adarabioyo play for the Super Eagles? (Photo by Imago)
Adarabioyo has been quite cautious in making a decision though. As there have been talks about drafting him into the Super Eagles since his days at Fulham, but it hasn’t worked out.

However, the Chelsea defender spoke about his international career in a recent interview, and he confirmed that he has Nigeria and England on his mind. He also said that he will make his decision soon due to the 2026 World Cup next year, so he will have a shot at playing in the world’s grandest football tournament.

“The World Cup means it (my international career) is a decision I need to take sooner rather than later. It is a conversation we will have and we will see how it goes,” Adarabioyo told the BBC.

For a player who represented England in the age-grade competitions, it is believed that he would likely choose England over Nigeria.

Blues Training Session – Cobham Training Ground – Cole Palmer centre and Tosin Adarabioyo (Photo by Imago)
Moreover, that is where he has been since birth. But unfortunately for him he has not been called up to the Three Lions yet.

If Adarabioyo decides to represent Nigeria, he would likely get an invitation almost immediately due to his quality and the paucity of top center-backs in the Super Eagles squad.

How good has Tosin Adarabioyo been at Chelsea?
Tosin Adarabioyo joined Chelse from Fulham last season, and he has had a decent start to life at the club.

Tosin Adarabioyo celebrating Chelsea’s Conference League win (Photo by Imago)
Last season, he featured in 37 games, with four goals and one assist to his name. At the ongoing FIFA Club World Cup, he has also played in two games for the Blues.

Chelsea fans have often maligned Adarabioyo for being sluggish and lacking grit. But he is great in aerial situations and is technical. He will hope to end the Club World Cup on a high note and help Chelsea do well next season.

With William Troost-Ekong ageing, Adarabioyo could be a mainstay in defence for the Super Eagles in the coming years if he decides to switch.

Kelvin Omachonu

Kelvin Omachonu is a writer with many years of experience covering sports events in Nigeria and abroad. He is fueled by his love for the job, and is dedicated to delivering captivating stories.