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.
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.
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Wifred indidi need serious deliverance oooo this is the second time always having injury when Nigeria need a serious game kilode
Leicester City doesn't want to let Ndidi go for AFCON. I won't be surprised to see him play before the end of the tournament.
This might be the turn for another champion in the midfield to emerge...Yusuf is good and if he blend he will add energy and speed to that midfield