Bayer Leverkusen forward Nathan Tella has described representing Nigeria’s Super Eagles as the greatest honour of his career so far, ranking it above his Bundesliga title with Leverkusen.
As reported by Sport buddy, Nathan Tella voiced his displeasure regarding his limited playing time at Bundesliga giants, Bayer Leverkusen.
According to report, the 26-year-old expressed his pride in wearing the green and white jersey, noting that playing in front of his family while representing Nigeria is a feeling no club achievement can match.
Early career and breakthrough
Born in Stevenage, England, Tella had his football foundation at Arsenal’s academy before playing for Southampton, Reading, Norwich, and Burnley. His career breakthrough came during his loan spell at Burnley in the 2022/23 season, where he scored 19 goals in all competitions and helped Vincent Kompany’s side secure Premier League promotion.
Bayer Leverkusen signed him in 2023 for £20 million, and since then, he has lifted the Bundesliga, the German Super Cup, and the League Cup. Despite these successes, Tella insists that playing for Nigeria remains his proudest moment.
Nigeria above everything
Reflecting on his Super Eagles journey, Tella revealed that winning the Unity Cup with Nigeria stands out as one of the biggest honours of his life. “This is an opportunity to play in front of my family representing my country, and I really don’t think I’ve had a bigger honour in my life up to date,” he said.
Tella, who assisted Samuel Chukwueze in the Unity Cup final against Jamaica, is now focused on maintaining top form with Leverkusen to secure a place in Nigeria’s squad for the 2026 World Cup qualifiers and the 2025 AFCON in Morocco.
“As a player, you’re not just handed the shirt. You have to earn it and work hard for it. There’s no bigger achievement than representing your country,” he added.
Tella enters his third season with Leverkusen under new manager Erik ten Hag and is set to kick off the campaign against Hoffenheim on August 23rd.
