The Nigeria Football Federation has been boosted by the omission of SC Freiburg goalkeeper Noah Atubolu from Germany’s squad for the UEFA Nations League quarterfinals against Italy. Atubolu’s impressive performance, including six consecutive clean sheets, highlights his potential for Nigeria as he remains uncapped at the senior level despite representing Germany at various youth stages.
The Nigeria Football Federation has received a significant boost as SC Freiburg goalkeeper Noah Atubolu was omitted from Germany’s national team for the UEFA Nations League quarterfinals against Italy. Germany’s head coach, Julian Nagelsmann, announced the squad, which notably did not include the impressive Atubolu, who has recently maintained six consecutive clean sheets in the Bundesliga. His absence from the squad preserves Nigeria’s chances to recruit the talented goalkeeper.
Atubolu made history last Saturday by becoming the first Freiburg goalkeeper to go 510 minutes without conceding, surpassing the previous record held by club legend Richard Golz from the 2001-2002 season. The 22-year-old has caught the attention of Nagelsmann, but ultimately, his selection for the squad included Oliver Baumann, Alexander Nübel, and Stefan Ortega Moreno instead.
Had Atubolu been included and subsequently debuted against Italy, he would have been cap-tied to Germany, the nation of his birth. Despite representing Germany at various youth levels, including U17, U19, U20, and U21, he now remains a viable option for Nigeria’s national team as he has yet to commit to a senior international career.
The Nigeria Football Federation views Atubolu’s omission as a pivotal opportunity to secure his services as they prepare for upcoming international fixtures. His dual nationality creates potential benefits for Nigeria, particularly as they build their squad towards future competitions and endeavors.
In conclusion, the exclusion of Noah Atubolu from the German national team provides a valuable opportunity for the Nigeria Football Federation to pursue the talented goalkeeper. His outstanding form at SC Freiburg has garnered attention, yet his absence from the squad against Italy means he has not yet committed to any senior national team. This situation may enable Nigeria to potentially secure a key player for their future endeavors.
Original Source: www.allnigeriasoccer.com
