Unity Cup 2026: AIK issue fresh update on Zadok Yohanna

Nigerian youngster Zadok Yohanna suffered an injury scare during AIK’s 4-2 defeat to Djurgarden in the Swedish Allsvenskan on Sunday, Afrik-Foot reports.

The 18-year-old has emerged as one of the most exciting youngsters in Europe and is already attracting interest from several top clubs ahead of the summer transfer window, including from the likes of Bayer Leverkusen, Borussia Dortmund, RB Leipzig, Chelsea and Ajax Amsterdam.

However, there were concerns after he was forced off at halftime after he felt discomfort during AIK’s defeat on Sunday, which marked their third in eight league games and leaves them in ninth place on the standings.

They went two goals behind early in the encounter, but looked set to mount a comeback when Yohanna provided the assist for Kevin Boubacar’s goal which reduced the deficit, marking the Nigerian youngster’s third league assist of the campaign.

Despite his impact in the first half, the 18-year-old was unable to continue after the break and was replaced by Victor Andersson at halftime. AIK struggled in his absence during the second half and eventually fell to another disappointing defeat.

Jose Riveiro plays down injury concerns over Zadok Yohanna

Zadok Yohanna’s assist against Djurgarden took his total goal contributions in the Swedish league this season to five in just eight appearances. It also marked his second consecutive game with a goal involvement, strengthening his chances of earning a maiden invitation to represent the Super Eagles ahead of the Unity Cup.

Speaking after the game, AIK head coach Jose Riveiro downplayed fears over the youngster’s injury and revealed he could return for their next match against Vasteras.

“I don’t know anything about his injury. Am I worried? I can’t be worried about an injury I know nothing about”, Riveiro said post-match.

Meanwhile, Yohanna himself also eased concerns on the injury scare, explaining how he was withdrawn as a precaution to avoid aggravating the problem. 

“I felt a bit of pain, but it’s not a serious injury. They took me off because they didn’t want to risk anything”, Yohanna said.

“Yes, if they had allowed it, I obviously would have wanted to keep playing, but they said no. They didn’t want to make the situation worse.”

Super Eagles handed major Yohanna boost ahead of Unity Cup

Highly rated youngster Zadok Yohanna has been strongly tipped to make Nigeria’s squad for the upcoming Unity Cup in London as the Super Eagles prepare to defend the title they won in 2025.

His chances of receiving a maiden call-up were boosted after head coach Eric Chelle revealed that fresh players and some other fringe players would be handed opportunities to represent the national team.

There were fears that his injury against Djurgarden could jeopardize his chances of making the squad, but the latest updates have now revealed that he could still be available for selection.

For now, the Nigerian winger will focus on regaining full fitness and maintaining his impressive form for AIK as he prepares for a very important summer in his career, with several top European clubs believed to be keeping tabs on his progress.