The Nigerian national football team, the Super Eagles, has a new potential star in its ranks as the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco approaches. Tochukwu Nnadi, a 22-year-old midfielder, has received his first senior call-up and is tipped to make a significant impact in a department that has worried fans and pundits alike.
Who is Tochukwu Nnadi?
Born in Nigeria, Nnadi's football journey began in Owerri before he took a bold step to develop his career abroad. He spent two seasons at a local academy before moving to the Madenat Alamal Football Academy in Bulgaria. His professional career truly launched at Bulgarian side Botev Plovdiv, where he honed his skills for four seasons.
His current club is Zulte Waregem in Belgium, where his impressive performances have not only caught the eye of national team selectors but also attracted serious interest from the English Premier League. West Ham United is reportedly monitoring the young midfielder ahead of a potential move next summer.
A Dream Call-Up for AFCON 2025
Nnadi's inclusion in Coach Eric Chelle's final 28-man squad for AFCON 2025 marks a dream come true for the former Nigeria U20 international. In an interview with NFF TV, Nnadi shared the emotional moment he found out, revealing he learned the news from a friend on Instagram after a tense wait following the preliminary list.
"I screamed, I’m going to the AFCON. I was happy, my family was happy as well. It’s a dream come true," Nnadi said. "I was young and always dreaming to be in the national team one day. I played in the under-20s and now I’m in the Super Eagles. Though I was not expecting it so soon, now I’m here and I’m happy."
The Midfield Challenge and Expectations
Nnadi's call-up comes at a critical time. Head coach Eric Chelle has previously expressed concerns over the team's midfield setup. While players like Alex Iwobi, Frank Onyeka, and Raphael Onyedika have held the fort, there has been a persistent feeling that the unit lacks the creative dominance of legends past.
This sentiment was echoed by former Nigerian striker Yakubu Aiyegbeni, who recently stated the squad lacks a traditional, commanding midfielder in the mould of former captain Sunday Oliseh. Nnadi now has the opportunity to help address this perceived gap.
He made his unofficial debut in a pre-tournament friendly against Egypt, coming on as a substitute. His performance there has given Coach Chelle confidence, and he could be thrust into the deep end when the tournament kicks off. Nigeria's first match is against Tanzania on December 23.
The task for the young star is clear: justify his selection with compelling performances. The Super Eagles' midfield, as described in reports, "surgically needs attention," and only consistent displays will secure Nnadi's place in the team's future. All eyes will be on this exciting prospect as Nigeria campaigns for continental glory in Morocco.
