Confirmed: AIK refuse to release Zadok to Nigerian Federation for 2026 Unity Cup

Swedish Allsvenskan side AIK have confirmed that Nigerian winger Zadok Yohanna will not be released to the Nigeria Football Federation for the upcoming 2026 Unity Cup in London, dealing a blow to Eric Chelle’s plans ahead of the four-nation tournament.

Yohanna, one of Nigeria’s brightest emerging talents in Europe, had earned a place in the Super Eagles squad for the Unity Cup, which is scheduled to hold between May 26 and May 30 at The Valley in London.

Nigeria are among the participating nations alongside Jamaica, Zimbabwe, and India, with the competition expected to serve as another opportunity for Chelle to assess younger and fringe players ahead of future international assignments.

However, AIK have now opted against releasing the 18-year-old attacker, citing both medical and sporting reasons behind their decision, as Yohanna continues his recovery from injury.

The Swedish club made the announcement on its official website, stressing their support for the player despite his absence from the national team setup this month.

In its statement, AIK said: “AIK Football is proud of Zadok Yohanna who has been selected for the Nigerian national team for their participation in the Unity Cup in London. However, Zadok is in an important final stage of his rehabilitation and the club has therefore decided not to release him on national team duty this time.”

The club further explained that the decision was not solely linked to his rehabilitation process but also to his importance within the team as they approach a crucial period in the Swedish season. AIK emphasized that Yohanna remains a significant figure in their squad despite his young age and growing profile.

AIK added: “AIK Football is happy and proud that Zadok Yohanna has been selected for the Nigerian national team for the Unity Cup, which will be played in London between May 26-30, 2026. The decision not to let him travel to London is based partly on the fact that he is in rehabilitation, but also on sporting reasons, as Zadok is an important player for AIK Football.”

Despite shutting the door on this call-up, the Swedish side made it clear they remain optimistic about Yohanna’s future with the national team. “We look forward to seeing Zadok represent the Nigerian national team in the future,” the club said.

Yohanna’s absence represents a disappointing setback for Nigeria, particularly as the teenager continues to attract attention through his performances in Sweden.

However, his exclusion appears precautionary, with AIK prioritizing his recovery and club commitments before any international breakthrough.