AIK have blocked teenage Nigerian winger Zadok Yohanna from joining the Super Eagles squad for the 2026 Unity Cup in London, citing injury rehabilitation and sporting considerations.

Yohanna received his first-ever senior national team invitation on Wednesday after Super Eagles coach Éric Chelle included the 18-year-old among 12 debutants named for the invitational tournament scheduled for May 26 to 30.

Despite the excitement surrounding his maiden call-up, the Swedish club has decided against releasing the youngster for the competition.

In a statement, AIK expressed pride over the winger’s invitation but explained why he would remain in Sweden.

“AIK Football is happy and proud that Zadok Yohanna has been selected for the Nigerian national team for the Unity Cup, which will be played in London between May 26-30, 2026,” the club stated.

“The decision not to let him travel to London is based partly on the fact that he is in rehabilitation, but also on sporting reasons, as Zadok is an important player for AIK Football Club.

“We look forward to seeing Zadok represent the Nigerian national team in the future.”

The decision is in line with FIFA regulations, as the Unity Cup falls outside the official international window, meaning clubs are not obligated to release players for the tournament.

Unlike most major European leagues, Sweden’s Allsvenskan season runs from March to November because of weather conditions, leaving the campaign still in its early stages.

Yohanna has quickly become one of AIK’s most influential players this season, contributing nine goals and assists combined in 12 appearances across all competitions.

The left-footed winger’s performances have also attracted attention from several European giants, including Real Madrid CF, Chelsea FC, AFC Ajax, Bayer 04 Leverkusen and Borussia Dortmund.

AIK’s cautious approach is also influenced by their difficult start to the season. The Stockholm-based club currently sit 10th in the league table with nine points from eight matches and are keen to avoid losing one of their key attacking players.

Although Yohanna missed the club’s last match with a minor injury concern, he is expected to return soon and could play a crucial role in upcoming fixtures.

Had he travelled for the Unity Cup, the youngster would likely have missed AIK’s league clash against table-toppers IK Sirius on May 30, which coincides with the tournament’s final day.