'A dream come true' - Blackburn Rovers right-back honoured to represent Super Eagles

Blackburn Rovers fullback Ryan Alebiosu has described his invitation to the Super Eagles as a 'dream come true' after receiving his maiden call-up to represent Nigeria at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.

The right-back enjoyed an impressive campaign in the Championship and was drafted into the Nigerian squad as a replacement for the injured Ola Aina, while also providing cover for Bright Osayi-Samuel during the tournament.

The former Arsenal defender went on to make his debut for Nigeria during the competition, featuring in the Super Eagles’ victory over Uganda national football team in their final group-stage match.

Speaking to Rovers TV, Alebiosu expressed delight over the opportunity, admitting the international call-up exceeded his expectations when he first joined the club

“I think it was just a bonus,” Alebiosu said. “When I signed, I didn't think much of getting international call-up. When it does happen it was like a dream come true. For that to happen, it was one of the biggest highlights of my career, playing for my country and getting called up. It really made my season as well.”

Alebiosu added that the experience with Nigeria significantly boosted his confidence and gave him extra motivation ahead of the new campaign.

“When the international stuff happened, it just boost my confidence even more, it made me realize there's a lot that could have been done and a lot has happened but I am just grateful. “It's been brilliant as a team and them getting called up for Nigeria, it's a honour,” he added.

“Getting that at the age of 23, which was the half of last season I got the call-up, it just gives me more hunger for the next season. There's still a lot to improve on but now just give me that belief that there's more to bring to the table.”

Alebiosu was one of Blackburn’s standout performers during the season, scoring once and providing five assists in 40 appearances across all competitions as the club successfully avoided relegation from the Championship.

Reflecting on his debut campaign in England, the defender described the season as physically demanding but rewarding, while also admitting he exceeded even his own expectations.

“It's been a fun season but difficult moment as a team. Personally, it's been a great season back in England, physical, tough, but got through and I have enjoyed every moment of it.” Alebiosu said.

“I had goals when I first came to show everyone what I can do. To implement what I can bring to the team. I feel like there's still a lot more to come but I have achieved a lot so far and it's been great.

“Every day and every game as they came, it is just about building and I feel like the team has helped me a lot to get my element quick to progress. It's been great experience and challenge. Physical and demanding league and to come here and play every single game all minutes, it is unbelievable.

“Not as quickly as I have adapted but I always knew I can show myself and bring something to the table. Obviously, the way I have adapted this is a bit of surprise to me. “

On areas he hopes to improve, Alebiosu pointed to his attacking contributions in the final third. “To me personally, more of goals and assists. I started to get more of that towards the end. But I feel like from the start, I feel like the final third is where I can be better at.”

Despite his impressive performances for both club and country, Alebiosu was omitted from Nigeria’s squad for the upcoming Unity Cup tournament as well as the international friendlies against Poland and Portugal.