Nigerian footballers are making headlines across Europe’s top leagues, with Bayer Leverkusen’s Nathan Tella nearing a return from injury while Ademola Lookman faces criticism following a touchline incident at Atalanta.
Nathan Tella’s Recovery Progress
Bayer Leverkusen manager Kasper Hjulmand has confirmed winger Nathan Tella is close to returning from injury. The Nigerian international has been sidelined since September with a knee injury sustained during Leverkusen’s 3-1 victory over Eintracht Frankfurt.
Hjulmand stated the international break provides ideal timing for Tella’s recovery. “Nathan and Axel are already back on the pitch training individually. The next two weeks should aid their rehabilitation,” the coach announced via the club’s official channels.
Before his injury, Tella made four appearances this season with one assist. The former Southampton player is expected to rejoin full team training before month-end.
Lookman’s Touchline Controversy
Meanwhile, Ademola Lookman has drawn criticism following his reaction to being substituted during Atalanta’s UEFA Champions League match against Olympique Marseille. The Nigerian forward appeared visibly angry when replaced by Yunus Musah in the second half.
Lookman engaged in a heated exchange with manager Ivan Juric before teammates and coaching staff intervened. Veteran Italian journalist Fabio Caressa condemned the player’s behavior as unprofessional.
“After returning this summer, consistently appearing angry and aggressive benefits no one, including Lookman himself. This attitude shows disrespect to the club,” Caressa stated in comments reported by Italian media.
The incident has sparked debate about player conduct as both Nigerians navigate different challenges in their European careers.
