AFCON 2023: Jupiler Pro League champions reacts as Alhassan Yusuf replaces Ndidi

Wilfred Ndidi has been ruled out of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations tournament, and Alhassan Yusuf has received a call-up to replace him

Belgium’s reigning Jupiler Pro League champions, Royal Antwerp, have responded to Alhassan Yusuf’s inclusion in Nigeria’s squad for the highly anticipated 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, Soccernet.ng reports.

The 23-year-old midfielder was officially named the replacement for injured Leicester City star Wilfred Ndidi, marking his debut call-up to the esteemed Super Eagles.

In a gesture of support, the Belgian champions conveyed their best wishes to Yusuf via their official X (formerly Twitter) platform, expressing their excitement as he prepares to represent Nigeria in the upcoming continental tournament.

“Alhassan Yusuf has just been called up to the Nigerian national team. Good luck at the Africa Cup, Yus!,” shared Royal Antwerp through their social media page.

Alhassan Yusuf werd zonet opgeroepen voor de Nigeriaanse nationale ploeg. Veel succes op de Africa Cup, Yus! 👊🔴⚪ pic.twitter.com/EZaj9GOFnE

— Royal Antwerp FC (@official_rafc) January 3, 2024

Yusuf, formerly with IFK Goteborg in Sweden, is set to join the Super Eagles at their training base in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, later today.

Currently, 21 players have assembled at the team’s camp, undergoing preparations for a pre-tournament competition before their departure for Côte d’Ivoire.

With 25 appearances for the Belgian side under his belt this season, Yusuf notably contributed a goal during their UEFA Champions League encounter against Porto FC and provided an assist in their 3-2 victory against Barcelona.

As the tournament approaches, Yusuf’s addition to the Super Eagles’ roster is expected to inject a sense of hope in the Super Eagles midfield.