Nathan Tella reaches career milestone in Bayer Leverkusen win at Koln

Super Eagles attacker Nathan Tella has become the first Nigerian to reach 100 appearances for former Bundesliga champions Bayer Leverkusen, Soccernet.ng reports.

​The versatile 26-year-old reached the milestone during Bayer Leverkusen's 2-1 victory over Koln on Saturday. Tella delivered an impressive performance in the fixture, providing the assist for Patrik Schick’s second goal.

​The Super Eagles star has experienced a topsy-turvy tenure at the BayArena. Three seasons ago, he played a pivotal role in Die Werkself’s historic unbeaten run to the Bundesliga title.

100 times in ⚫️🔴 for Nathan Tella! 😍 pic.twitter.com/B6BgMjCENH

— Bayer 04 Leverkusen (@bayer04_en) April 26, 2026

While he enjoyed a solid campaign last season—tallying four goals and five assists in 39 appearances—this season has been more challenging. Tella has struggled with recurring injuries and only returned to consistent action two weeks ago.

​Future at the BayArena

​Due to his recent fitness struggles, there was speculation that Bayer Leverkusen might consider loaning or selling Tella in the upcoming summer transfer window.

​However, Die Werkself put those rumors to rest by handing the Nigerian international a contract extension, securing his future at the club until 2031.

The former Southampton man has quickly repaid that faith, putting in a string of impressive displays over his last three outings.

​Leverkusen currently sit sixth in the Bundesliga table, just two points shy of a Champions League spot. They will be looking to Tella to help maintain this momentum as they aim to finish the campaign on a high.

​Can Nathan Tella Return to the Super Eagles Fold?

​Tella’s inconsistent playing time has limited his opportunities with the national team. Although he made his debut in 2023, he has rarely had the chance to cement his place in the starting XI.

Notably, he is yet to feature under Eric Chelle since the Franco-Malian coach led the Super Eagles to win the Unity Cup in June last year.

​Nonetheless, given his recent resurgence in Germany, Tella will certainly have his sights set on a spot in Chelle’s squad for Nigeria’s upcoming World Cup qualifiers in June.