Super Eagles winger Nathan Tella has expressed his frustration over limited playing time at Bayer Leverkusen, despite his strong performances during the previous season.
Tella joined the Bundesliga giants from Southampton in the summer of 2023 for a substantial fee of around €23 million.
However, the 25-year-old has found it challenging to secure a spot in the starting eleven since his arrival.
Last season, the former Premier League player managed 24 league appearances, mostly off the bench.
Despite his limited minutes, Tella made a huge impact with eleven goal involvements across all competitions, helping Leverkusen to lift both the Bundesliga and DFB-Pokal titles.
Nathan Tella’s club woes affect Super Eagles prospects
Despite his promising display during the 2023-2024 campaign, Nathan Tella has struggled to make a mark in the new campaign.
He has only appeared in three league matches without a goal or an assist to his name.
His struggles at Leverkusen have also impacted his international career. Tella was overlooked for Nigeria's most recent AFCON 2025 qualifiers, leaving his single cap from a World Cup qualifier against Zimbabwe in November 2023 as his only contribution to the Super Eagles.
In a recent interview with German newspaper BILD, Tella voiced his concerns over his current situation, admitting that the lack of playing time has been tough.
“It’s frustrating, to be honest. But I spoke to the coach. He assured me that I will get opportunities and that I have to be patient.
“When I get a chance, I have to show myself. I think I’ve done well, and I also think I’m training well.
“Now it is up to the coach to have the confidence to use me. He makes the decisions—and they work well,” Tella stated.
With the season still in its early stages, the Super Eagles star remains hopeful for more opportunities to prove his worth.
