I Didn’t Snub Nigeria – Adarabioyo Debunks Claims

Still in celebration mood over his club’s triumph in the UEFA Conference League final, Chelsea defender Tosin Adarabioyo has denied ever rejecting an opportunity to play for the Super Eagles of Nigeria.

According to him, contrary to reports in the media, no formal engagement has taken place between him and the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) regarding a potential international switch of allegiance to wear the Nigerian National team jersey.

Firmly addressing the persistent rumors about his international future following Chelsea’s impressive 4–1 comeback victory over Real Betis in Wrocław, Poland, Adarabioyo, who made the transition to Chelsea from Fulham, said previous reports claiming he turned down opportunities to represent the Super Eagles in 2020 and 2022 are incorrect.

In setting the records straight, the 27-year-old former Manchester City youth player said, “Both of those pieces of news were pretty false. I’ve never turned down Nigeria, and I’ve never had any conversations with them to say that I will be going to Nigeria.”

Despite representing England at various youth levels, Adarabioyo remains eligible to play for Nigeria through descent, and he explained that amid speculation about his international future, his primary focus was on building and securing his club career.

Explaining that being in the final year of his contract at Fulham, he wanted to concentrate on maintaining his form and fitness, the defender said,  “At the point last season when there was a little bit of conversation, I told the club I needed to focus on my football.

“I just wanted to have a solid run at Fulham. And now I’m at Chelsea, my first year, so I wanted to concentrate again.”

But having now completed a successful first season at Stamford Bridge, culminating in a historic European triumph, the centre-back disclosed that a decision on his international allegiance will be coming soon, saying, “I think now is going to be the time that I need to make a decision.”

Among the early signings for Chelsea in the 2024/2025 season, Adarabioyo was pivotal in shoring up the Blues’ defence under new Manager Enzo Maresca, as he contributed four goals and the West London side kept 13 clean sheets across 37 matches.

Chelsea’s triumph over Real Betis marked a historic achievement, as the club became the first in football history to win all five UEFA club competitions: the UEFA Champions League, Europa League, Conference League, Super Cup, and the now-defunct Cup Winners’ Cup.