Nigeria have received a major boost ahead of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations with Blackburn Rovers defender Ryan Alebiosu cleared to represent the Super Eagles, footynaija.com reports.
The development comes at a crucial time, as injuries have disrupted the team’s defensive structure during the final stretch of preparation for the tournament in Morocco.
First-choice right-back Ola Aina remains sidelined following surgery on an injury suffered during international duty and is not expected to return to action until 2026.
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Brentford youngster Benjamin Fredrick, widely used in recent matches as a tactical alternative, was also ruled out after picking up an injury while on loan at Dender FC. With both options unavailable, Eric Chelle faced a significant selection headache.
Let’s play a game, name a right back in the Championship better than Ryan Alebiosu.#BRFC | #Rovers pic.twitter.com/UbnKSdyvwI
— RoversXtra (@RoversXtra) November 1, 2025
Alebiosu’s availability changes that. The 23-year-old, born in Islington to Nigerian parents, has been in strong form for Blackburn, making 18 appearances and scoring once in the Championship this season. A product of Arsenal’s academy, he gained senior experience in England, Scotland and Belgium before joining Blackburn Rovers, where his development has accelerated.
PLAYERS TO BOLSTER SUPER EAGLES:
✮ Bryan Okoh (22, CB)
✮ Philip Otele (26, LW)
✮ Ryan Alebiosu (23, RB)
✮ Femi Azeez (24, RM/RW)
✮ Ebenezer Akinsanmiro (20, CDM)
✮ Uchenna Aririerisim (21, CB, RCB)These players are the best option for the SE.#9jascouts pic.twitter.com/5mUrIRQCxr
— Nigeria Scout (@9jaPlayersNews) November 7, 2025
Known for his athleticism, defensive discipline and attacking drive, Alebiosu fits the mould of the modern full-back, and his profile aligns with what Nigeria require heading into the AFCON.
Chelle is expected to include him in the 28-man squad, which will be announced shortly. Nigeria have been drawn in Group D alongside Tunisia, Uganda and Tanzania.
