Chelsea defender Tosin Adarabioyo says that he will soon decide whether he will represent Nigeria or England at senior international level and that the FIFA World Cup 2026 will play a key role in his final decision.
Adarabioyo, born in England from Nigerian parents, has represented England at youth level-from under 16 to 19-buts have never played for the senior team. At 27 he is still eligible to change to Nigeria faithfully.
Speaking with the BBC, Adarabioyo said that the coming World Cup is a great motivation behind his need to quickly make a choice.
> “The World Cup means that it is a decision that I have to make to take earlier instead of taking later. It is a conversation we will have, and we will see how it goes,” he said.
For years there have been discussions about Adarabioyo who join the Super Eagles, especially during his time in Fulham, but the move never came. Now in Chelsea, and with Nigeria struggling in the qualifications of the World Cup, the defender may have to think twice before connecting in the West African nation.
Adarabioyo grew up in England and has always been part of the English football system, making him a strong candidate to wait for a possible call-up of three lions. But without invitation from Gareth Southgate, Nigeria could switch to him an immediate opportunity to play international football.
The Super Eagles, who have no quality in the central defense, especially with William Troost-Akong approaching the end of his career, would probably welcome him directly in the team.
Adarabioyo came to Chelsea from Fulham last season and made 37 performances, scored four goals and offered one assist. He can also be seen in the Chelsea campaign on the current FIFA Club World Cup, which appeared in two games.
Although some Chelsea fans have criticized his pace and aggression, he stays strong in air duels and has shown good technical skills.
Whether he chooses Nigeria or England, one thing is clear – the World Cup 2026 could be his best chance of playing on the global stage. His final decision is expected in the coming months.
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