Swedish outfit AIK have publicly announced their decision to block Zadok Yohanna’s participation at the 2026 Unity Cup after the youngster’s inclusion in Eric Chelle’s Super Eagles squad for the four-nation tournament, Fotynaija.com reports.
Yohanna, who received his maiden call up to the senior national team, was one of 12 fresh faces in a boldly selected squad that also features seven players from Nigeria’s domestic league.
The exciting 18-year-old forward earned his invitation courtesy of his impressive start to life in the Allsvenskan where he has notched five goal contributions (2G, 3A) in seven appearances for AIK so far.
However, the Swedish giants have opted against releasing Yohanna for the upcoming tournament set to take place in England, citing concerns over his health status as the teenager is currently undergoing rehabilitation from an injury.
AIK are also still in the middle of an ongoing domestic season so they’re reluctant to lose the Ikon Allah Football Academy graduate as they consider him a very important part of their plans for the campaign.
Furthermore, the Unity Cup will take place outside the official FIFA international calendar. As a result, AIK are within their rights to hold on to the player and on Thursday, they confirmed their decision via an official statement.
”AIK Football is proud of Zadok Yohanna for his selection to the Nigerian national team for the upcoming Unity Cup in London,” the club stated.
”However, Zadok is currently in a crucial final stage of his rehabilitation. The club has therefore decided not to release him for national team duty this time.
“The decision is based partly on his recovery process, but also on sporting reasons, as Zadok is an important player for AIK Football. We look forward to seeing Zadok represent the Nigerian national team in the future.”
This means Yohanna would have to wait for another opportunity to make his senior international debut for Nigeria. In the meantime, Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle will be looking at potential replacements for the teenager.
