The reason behind Super Eagles midfielder's delayed start to Dukla Prague pre-season

Dukla Prague began preparations for the new season on Monday without Nigeria international midfielder Samson Tijani.

However, his absence is unrelated to speculation linking him with a possible summer departure from the relegated Czech First League club or his involvement with the Super Eagles at the 2026 Unity Cup.

After five years without a call-up to the Super Eagles, Tijani was included in the squad for the Unity Cup, where he started back-to-back matches against Zimbabwe and Jamaica as Nigeria retained the trophy.

He was also considered for the June international fixtures following a number of withdrawals from the Nigeria squad, but visa issues prevented him from joining the travelling squad to Warsaw.

According to Dukla Prague’s official website, Tijani missed the start of the summer training programme due to ongoing visa processing.

The club did not reveal whether he will be available for their first pre-season friendly against second-tier side Vlašim on Saturday, June 20.

A total of 30 players, including several who returned from loan spells, took part in the first training session of the summer on Monday, June 15.

Last season, Tijani recorded 28 appearances in all competitions for Dukla Prague, including 23 starts.