Hull City head coach Sergej Jakirovic has acknowledged that Semi Ajayi’s departure for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations leaves a significant gap in his side, even as he voiced pride in seeing the defender represent Nigeria at a major tournament, Footynaija.com reports.
Ajayi’s call-up comes at a time when the centre-back has grown into a key figure for the Tigers. The 32-year-old endured a difficult start to his Hull career after struggling with hamstring issues, managing just one appearance in his first three months at the club.
Since shaking off those fitness problems, however, he has become a mainstay in Jakirovic’s defence, playing every minute of his last six appearances for the Tigers before leaving for international duty.
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While Jakirovic described Ajayi’s absence as a “big headache” for the club, the Bosnian coach was quick to place the situation in perspective, stressing the pride attached to representing one’s nation and likening AFCON’s significance to that of the Euros.
“It’s a big headache for us, yes, and all the clubs that have players from Africa, but what can we do? This is the Africa Cup of Nations,” he said in quotes revealed by Express and Star.
“For those players, this is like the European Championship. They represent their own country, and they are very proud.
“We are very proud because we have a national team player and we wish him all the very best.”
While Hull will miss Ajayi’s experience, Jakirovic believes the squad has the depth to cope. Defenders Charlie Hughes, John Egan and Akin Famewo are all available options to see increased opportunities, with Cathal McCarthy also pushing for minutes.
Hull narrowly avoided relegation from the EFL Championship last season, but are now enjoying better fortunes as they currently sit sixth in the division.
Jakirovic will hope that momentum continues during Ajayi’s absence, while wishing the Super Eagles defender success in Morocco.
