The 21-year-old, Alhassan Yusuf has been handed a first call-up to the Nigeria national team for upcoming friendlies against Mexico and Ecuador. Yusuf is one of few players to be called up for the first time.
Who is Alhassan Yusuf?
Born in Kano State, Alhassan Yusuf began his career with FC Hearts in his homeland. He was featured at the 2016 and 2017 Gothia Cup in Sweden where he was a standout and sparked interest among a number of European clubs. He was handed a trial at Swedish top-flight side IFK Göteborg and afterward signed his first professional contract with the club in 2018
Yusuf was impressed in his first full year at IFK, so much so that he was named the Allsvenskan Newcomer of the Year in 2019. He helped IFK win the 2019–20 Svenska Cupen.
“A ball winner and genius in one. There’s a bit to learn, that’s it, but he can really be great,” IFK chief scout Olle Sultan had said of Yusuf. “His development has been pretty amazing. I have believed in him very much all the time. He has learned on the way to becoming less naive.”
In July 2021, Royal Antwerp announced the signing of the young midfielder in a deal worth €1 million-plus add-ons on a four-year contract. Yusuf left IFK having made 77 appearances, recording 2 goals and 9 assists.
Yusuf has adapted seamlessly to life in Belgium and has been a mainstay in Antwerp’s midfield since his transfer. He has started 29 of 36 matches he has featured in for The Reds this campaign.
A dynamic, diminutive, and disciplined player, his style of play has been likened to that of Chelsea star N’Golo Kante, a player he admires. Yusuf has been praised for his intelligence, relentless energy, and excellent ball-winning abilities as a defensive or a box-to-box midfielder. He is also an efficient passer of the ball, helping kick start attacking plays immediately after winning back the ball.
“I’m very happy, very excited because it’s a dream come true for me to represent my country,” Yusuf said on his maiden call-up. He could make his Super Eagles debut when Nigeria face Mexico (28) and Ecuador (June 2).
