“On merit” – Ex-Grasshoppers midfielder backs Yohanna for Super Eagles call-up

Former Super Eagles and Grasshoppers midfielder Duke Udi has weighed in on Zadok Yohanna’s chances of earning a call-up to the national team, Soccernet.ng reports.

Yohanna has entered the conversation for a place in the Super Eagles squad ahead of the Unity Cup later this month, as well as upcoming friendly matches against Poland and Portugal next month.

The 18-year-old only joined AIK in 2025 but has already made headlines with his impressive performances since the start of the year. Yohanna has scored five goals and provided three assists in 11 appearances across all competitions, with his latest goal securing a 1–1 draw against Elfsborg in the Swedish league last weekend.

Despite not featuring for Nigeria at any youth level, the Ikon Allah Football Academy product has been tipped to make a huge leap to the senior national team.

Duke Udi backs Yohanna for Super Eagles invitation

Nigeria will defend their Unity Cup title in London later this month after winning the 2025 edition and Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has promised to rotate his squad for the tournament, revealing that fringe players will be given opportunities.

This could open the door for Zadok Yohanna, who has impressed in Sweden this season and may now be in line for a maiden call-up.

Speaking during an interview, former Super Eagles midfielder Duke Udi stressed that national team selection should be strictly based on merit, which could hand Yohanna a chance given his performances in Sweden this year. 

“Every Nigerian playing in Europe or anywhere across the globe should be considered for the national team, provided they are qualified and good enough”, the former Grasshoppers midfielder told Footy-Africa.

“Selection for the Super Eagles must be based on merit, regardless of origin or background. If a player is performing consistently for his club week in and week out, like Zadok is doing, and the coach believes he can improve the squad, then the necessary steps should be taken to invite him.”

Despite backing Yohanna’s inclusion, the former Shooting Stars midfielder cautioned against rushing the youngster into the national setup too quickly.

Udi believes Eric Chelle must have a clear tactical plan to ensure the 18-year-old fits into the system, before handing him an opportunity.

“Ultimately, selection depends on the coach’s vision. A player might be a favourite among fans and pundits, but if his style does not align with the manager’s approach, it creates a different dynamic”, Duke Udi added.

“People view football through different lenses. A player who looks world class to the public might not fit the specific requirements of the coaching staff. If he has the quality to help the team, a friendly game would be the perfect opportunity to assess what he can bring.

“It is a point of pride for any Nigerian to see one of our own competing in high-level European football. He is clearly a gifted player, but it is vital that he is allowed to continue his development without unnecessary pressure. That will help him reach his full potential”, he concluded.

Zadok Yohanna attracts interest from top European clubs

Yohanna’s performances for AIK this season have already drawn attention from several top European clubs ahead of the summer transfer window and the youngster could now be set for a move to another club just a year after initially move to Europe.

The 18-year-old is reportedly being monitored by three German clubs – Borussia Dortmund, Bayer Leverkusen and RB Leipzig, all of whom are interested in securing his services ahead of the upcoming season.

Premier League side Chelsea and Dutch giants Ajax have also been linked with a potential move as the transfer window approaches.

The next step in Yohanna’s career will be very important to his development. Even if a Super Eagles invitation may not come immediately, his current form suggests it is only a matter of time before he gets his chance.