Ex-Arsenal Star Xhaka praises Tella for choosing to play for Nigeria

Soccer Football – Championship – Hull City v Burnley – MKM Stadium, Hull, Britain – March 15, 2023 Burnley’s Nathan Tella celebrates scoring their second goal Action Images/Craig Brough/File Photo

Former Arsenal captain Granit Xhaka has praised his Bayer Leverkusen teammate Nathan Tella for his decision to play for Nigeria.

Tella got his first call-up to the Super Eagles ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Lesotho and Zimbabwe.

The 24-year-old was born in Lambeth, England, but had never made any appearance for any country at any level.

Speaking after Leverkusen’s 4-0 win against Union Berlin at the weekend, where Tella scored his first goal, Xhaka highlighted what makes his Nigerian colleague special.

“First of all he is a lovely guy, has a lot of speed, great finishing,” the Switzerland international said on Oma Sports TV.

“I’m so happy for him that he has decided to play for one country (Nigeria) and can play at this level.”

Tella is currently in Uyo with his new Super Eagles teammates, preparing for Thursday’s qualifier against Lesotho.

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