Nathan Tella Returns To Full Training As Super Eagles Receive Major AFCON Boost

Nathan Tella Returns To Full Training As Super Eagles Receive Major AFCON Boost

The Super Eagles have received a much-needed lift heading into AFCON 2025, as Bayer Leverkusen winger Nathan Tella has officially returned to full team training after spending two months on the sidelines with a stubborn knee injury.

The 26-year-old, who has been out since mid-September, rejoined Leverkusen’s main training group this week—signaling a promising step forward for both club and country.

Tella’s Long-Awaited Comeback, But Caution Still Key

Tella’s return on Tuesday marked his first full session since the injury he sustained during Leverkusen’s 3–1 win over Eintracht Frankfurt on September 12.
His recovery has not been straightforward, with multiple setbacks extending his absence far beyond the initial timeline.

German outlet Bild reports that Tella completed almost all scheduled activities in training but did not feature in the final internal match. Instead, he joined Axel Tape—another recent returnee—for passing and shooting drills on the side.

Head coach Kasper Hjulmand is choosing patience over pressure. Despite the excitement surrounding Tella’s return, Hjulmand remains focused on long-term stability rather than rushing him back into competitive play.
His availability for Saturday’s Bundesliga match against Wolfsburg remains uncertain, but spirits are high that he could at least make the matchday squad.

A Crucial Return For Leverkusen’s Intense Fixture Run

Tella’s recovery couldn’t have come at a better time for Bayer Leverkusen.
The club faces a brutal stretch of eight matches in four weeks, including heavyweight clashes against:

• Manchester City

• Borussia Dortmund

• Newcastle United

• RB Leipzig

With Arthur struggling to maintain consistency on the right flank, Tella’s pace, directness, and creativity offer Hjulmand a valuable attacking dimension—one the team has sorely missed.

Nigeria Also Set To Benefit Ahead Of AFCON 2025

Tella’s absence has been equally felt on the international stage.
He missed Nigeria’s last four 2026 World Cup qualifiers against Rwanda, South Africa, Lesotho, and Benin, as well as the recent playoffs against Gabon and DR Congo.

Now, with AFCON 2025 just weeks away in Morocco, Tella is racing to reach peak fitness.
If his recovery continues smoothly, he will give head coach Eric Chelle an explosive wing option—one capable of stretching defenses, creating chances, and adding depth to an already talented squad.

A Timely Boost For Nigeria’s AFCON Ambitions

Nathan Tella’s return doesn’t just represent a player recovering—it symbolizes renewed hope for the Super Eagles at a crucial moment.
With key fixtures looming for Leverkusen and a major international tournament around the corner, his comeback could play a decisive role in shaping Nigeria’s AFCON campaign.

Sports Market International will continue monitoring Tella’s progress as the countdown to Morocco 2025 intensifies.