Super Eagles blow! Bayer Leverkusen’s Tella out injured as Chelle calls up Germany-born defender

Gent defender Jordan Torunarigha has been called up to the Super Eagles squad for their upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Rwanda and Zimbabwe, replacing the injured Nathan Tella, Footynaija.com reports.

Tella, who was initially named in Eric Chelle’s 23-man squad, has withdrawn due to injury.

The Bayer Leverkusen forward remained on the bench as his side lost 2-0 to Bayern Munich in the Champions League Round of 16, and it has now been confirmed that he will miss the international break.

No be only me be the Nigerian for the team
Show love to my brother @NathanTella_11 pic.twitter.com/eknqsUXhKW

— Victor Boniface (@boniface_jrn) May 18, 2024

Chelle wasted no time in reinforcing his squad, bringing in Torunarigha, a Germany-born centre-back who has been in outstanding form for KAA Gent this season.

“Camp Update: Joshua Torunarigha has been called to replace injured Nathan Tella. We wish Nathan a quick recovery. #SoarSuperEagles“
— Super Eagles (@NGSuperEagles) March 13, 2025

Camp Update: Joshua Torunarigha has been called to replace injured Nathan Tella. We wish Nathan quick recovery #soarsupereagles pic.twitter.com/h5iaesFFxk

— Super Eagles (@NGSuperEagles) March 13, 2025

The 27-year-old has been a key figure for Gent, making 33 appearances across all competitions, including the Europa Conference League and Belgian Jupiler Pro League.

Originally a striker in his youth, he was converted into a centre-back while at Hertha Berlin’s academy, where he developed into a commanding presence in defence.

Torunarigha switched his international allegiance to Nigeria in 2023, having previously represented Germany at different youth levels.

He made his Super Eagles debut in a 3-2 friendly win over Mozambique last year and will now look to add to his solitary cap in the upcoming qualifiers.

His inclusion also strengthens Chelle’s defensive options, with Torunarigha joining William Troost-Ekong, Calvin Bassey, and Igoh Ogbu as the centre-back choices.

With Nigeria set to face Rwanda in Kigali on March 21 before hosting Zimbabwe in Uyo on March 25, Torunarigha will be eager to seize his opportunity and establish himself in the Super Eagles setup.