'False claims' - 36yo Rangers centre-back Balogun insists he is not done yet with Super Eagles

Rangers defender Leon Balogun has strongly dismissed recent claims that he has retired from international football, calling the reports ‘fake news’ in an exclusive interview with Flashscore. 

The 36-year-old, who has been a key figure for the Super Eagles for nearly a decade, took to social media and public platforms to clarify the rumours surrounding his future with Nigeria. 

"Sorry to be a bit harsh there, maybe, but it's out there. And I just said it to you myself. Those claims are, how do we like to say nowadays? Fake news," Balogun stated firmly, addressing the ongoing speculation about his international career.

Since making his debut for Nigeria in 2014 against Mexico, Balogun has been a fixture in the national team, forming a solid partnership with William Troost-Ekong at the heart of defence. 

He played a pivotal role in Nigeria’s qualification for the 2018 FIFA World Cup and their third-place finish in the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

Balogun’s last appearance for the Super Eagles came in 2022 during a dominant 10-0 victory over São Tomé and Príncipe in AFCON qualification. 

However, fitness concerns have kept him out of the team in recent times, leading to questions about his future involvement with the national team.

Despite the challenges of returning to the fold, Balogun expressed admiration for the Super Eagles’ defensive performances in his absence, particularly during the 2024 AFCON in Ivory Coast, where Nigeria finished runners-up. 

He praised the team's defensive strength, acknowledging their impressive record in the tournament.

"They've been good. I mean, look at the AFCON. I think they conceded the least goals. So, there's not much more to add," Balogun said, noting the solid performance from the national team’s backline.

Balogun also recognised that making a return to the Super Eagles won't be straightforward, but he believes the level of competition within the squad is essential to the team’s continued success.

"Obviously, me wanting to come back into the team doesn't make it easier. But you need a good level of competition because we're talking about the Super Eagles and not just any team," Balogun explained.

"You're talking about a team that wants to be the best in Africa. So, it needs to be hard to get into the team."

As Balogun looks to the future, the Super Eagles face significant challenges in both the 2025 AFCON and 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers. 

Nigeria is currently in a precarious position in the World Cup qualification standings and will need to secure positive results in their upcoming matches against Rwanda and Zimbabwe in March.

For Balogun, his return to the national team hinges on maintaining fitness and being available when called upon, a possibility he has not ruled out. 

His leadership, experience, and determination remain valuable assets for Nigeria’s ambitions on the continental and global stage.

Wale Adejumo

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