Nigerian Footballers Caught  In Middle East Conflict

Nigerian footballers plying their trade in the Middle East are navigating through sudden uncertainty as the war against Iran launched by the United States and Israel, and Iran’s subsequent retaliation has sent shockwaves through the region.

Several domestic football leagues have suspended play amid the crisis.

For Nigerian players, the disruption has gone beyond the pitch. In Qatar, Troost-Ekong, who play for Al-Ahli, and Edidiong Udosen of Umm Salal have had their routines disrupted.

George Ilenikhena, the most valuable Nigerian in the region at €12m, is among those whose adaptation at Al-Ittihad could be stalled after joining the club for €33m exactly a month ago to replace Karim Benzema.

The women’s game is equally affected as international stars like Asisat Oshoala, Francisca Ordega, Ashleigh Plumptre, and goalkeeper Tochukwu Oluehi adjusting to increased security measures and uncertainty surrounds fixtures.

Iraq, home to the largest contingent of Nigerian players in the Middle East, has seen anxiety spike following reports of airstrikes on pro-Iran military sites as17 Nigerian players face interrupted training schedules, potential pay delays, and uncertainty over match continuity.

Meanwhile Al-Nassr Captain Cristiano Ronaldo, has left Saudi Arabia for Madrid, Spain, following escalating tensions in the Middle East.

According to report, the 41-year-old departed Riyadh late at night aboard his £61 million Bombardier Global Express 6500 private jet and touched down in Madrid at about 1am CET.

PR/Kevin Nwabueze