EXCLUSIVE: Balogun Quashes Retirement Speculations, Remains Hopeful for World Cup Qualification

Leon Balogun, the seasoned Rangers defender, has vehemently dismissed rumours surrounding his retirement from international football, emphasising his unwavering allegiance to the Nigerian national team.

Since his first appearance against Mexico in March 2014, where he stepped in for Joseph Yobo, the experienced centre-back has established himself as an integral figure for the Super Eagles.

Pairing effectively with William Troost-Ekong, dubbed the “Oyibo Wall,” Balogun was instrumental in Nigeria’s qualification for the 2018 FIFA World Cup and their impressive third-place finish at the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations held in Egypt.

Nonetheless, injury concerns have kept him sidelined from the three-time African champions’ squad, with his most recent outing being the staggering 10-0 win over Sao Tome and Principe during the AFCON qualifiers at Stade d’Agadir in 2022.

After a two-year absence, speculation arose regarding the former Brighton & Hove Albion and Werder Bremen player’s quiet retirement from international duty. However, the forthright defender has firmly rejected these assertions.

“I might come across as a bit blunt, but the information is out there, and I want to set the record straight. Those claims are what folks nowadays refer to as ‘fake news’,” he stated.

With Balogun’s absence, England-based Semi Ajayi filled his spot in Nigeria’s squad for the upcoming AFCON in Côte d’Ivoire, where José Peseiro’s side finished as runners-up to the home team, the Elephants, in a nail-biting final.

While he commends the national team’s defensive line in his absence, Balogun acknowledges that making a return to the squad will be no easy feat. He underscores the necessity for high standards and robust competition for positions.

He elaborated: “They’ve been performing admirably. Just look at their AFCON results; they had the fewest goals conceded. There’s little more to be said on that.”

“Of course, my desire to rejoin the team complicates matters. But to succeed, we need a top-tier competition because we are discussing the Super Eagles—not just any ordinary squad.”

“This is a team that aspires to be the best in Africa, so earning a place must be tough.”

Balogun also shared his insights regarding Nigeria’s prospects in the 2025 AFCON draw and their chances of qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, despite the nation’s challenging circumstances.

“You’ve essentially posed two questions in one. Regarding the AFCON, it’s a tournament aimed at winning; every participating team comes with ambitions,” he remarked.

“Ultimately, it’s all about recognising the reality. Everyone aims to be the champion of Africa, and Nigeria certainly has something to prove after the last AFCON.”

“It’s vital to approach the tournament with both ambition and confidence, accompanied by a well-structured plan.”

“A clear strategy is equally crucial for the World Cup qualifiers, especially given our current delicate position where every point counts.”

“Thus, we absolutely need to maintain peak focus and deliver outstanding performances.”

The Super Eagles are targeting their fourth African title in Morocco, although they must first contend with previous champions Tunisia, alongside Uganda and Tanzania, in Group C, as per the CAF’s January draw.

In terms of World Cup qualifying, Nigeria finds themselves in fifth place in Group C with a meagre three points from four matches. Critical encounters against Rwanda and Zimbabwe await them in March.

Balogun is eager to don the green and white colours once more; his experience and leadership qualities are invaluable for new coach Eric Chelle. Nevertheless, his fitness will be pivotal for any possible inclusion back into the squad.