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Ryan Alebiosu Calls Super Eagles Invitation a ‘Dream Come True’ After AFCON Debut
Ryan Alebiosu has described his invitation to the Nigeria national football team as a “dream come true” after earning his maiden call-up for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.
The Blackburn Rovers F.C. fullback enjoyed an impressive season in the Championship and was drafted into the Nigerian squad as a replacement for the injured Ola Aina, while also providing cover for Bright Osayi-Samuel during the tournament.
The former Arsenal F.C. defender went on to make his debut for Nigeria, featuring in the Super Eagles’ victory over the Uganda national football team in their final group-stage match.
Speaking to Rovers TV, Alebiosu admitted the international call-up surpassed his expectations when he first joined Blackburn.
“I think it was just a bonus,” Alebiosu said. “When I signed, I didn’t think much of getting an international call-up. When it did happen, it was like a dream come true.
“For that to happen, it was one of the biggest highlights of my career, playing for my country and getting called up. It really made my season as well.”
The 23-year-old added that his experience with Nigeria significantly boosted his confidence and motivation ahead of the new campaign.
“When the international stuff happened, it just boosted my confidence even more. It made me realize there’s a lot that could have been done and a lot has happened, but I am just grateful.
“It’s been brilliant as a team and getting called up for Nigeria, it’s an honour.”
Alebiosu also admitted that representing Nigeria at such a young age has increased his determination to continue improving.
“Getting that at the age of 23, which was the half of last season, I got the call-up, it just gives me more hunger for the next season.
“There’s still a lot to improve on, but now it gives me that belief that there’s more to bring to the table.”
The defender was one of Blackburn’s standout performers during the season, scoring once and providing five assists in 40 appearances across all competitions as the club successfully avoided relegation from the Championship.
Reflecting on his first full campaign back in English football, Alebiosu described the season as both physically demanding and rewarding.
“It’s been a fun season, but difficult moments as a team. Personally, it’s been a great season back in England — physical, tough, but I got through, and I have enjoyed every moment of it,” he said.
“I had goals when I first came to show everyone what I can do and what I can bring to the team. I feel like there’s still a lot more to come, but I have achieved a lot so far, and it’s been great.”
The right-back also acknowledged how quickly he adapted to the demands of the Championship.
“Not as quickly as I have adapted, but I always knew I could show myself and bring something to the table. Obviously, the way I have adapted is a bit of a surprise to me.”
On areas he hopes to improve, Alebiosu pointed to his attacking output in the final third.
“To me personally, more goals and assists. I started to get more of that towards the end. But I feel like from the start, the final third is where I can be better at.”
Despite his strong performances for both club and country, Alebiosu was left out of Nigeria’s squads for the upcoming Unity Cup tournament and the international friendlies against the Poland national football team and the Portugal national football team.
