Portuguese side Porto are reportedly aiming to postpone Zaidu Sanusi’s release for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.
Sanusi was included in Nigeria’s 28-man squad for the tournament, announced by Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle on Thursday.
The left-back is expected to join the national team following Porto’s league match against Estrela next Monday.
However, One Football reported that the Dragons are seeking to hold him back until December 18, when they take on Famalicão in the Portuguese Cup.
FIFA has instructed clubs to release players for the AFCON by Monday, December 15.
Sanusi currently holds the position of Nigeria’s first-choice left-back.
Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has announced his final roster for the upcoming tournament, selecting a squad that includes three goalkeepers, eight defenders, eight midfielders, and nine forwards.
The competition is set to take place in Morocco from December 21, 2025, to January 18, 2026.
The squad features several newcomers, adding depth and fresh options across defence, midfield, and attack.
Nigeria has been drawn into Group C, where they will face off against Tunisia, Tanzania, and Uganda.
The Super Eagles are set to commence preparations for the competition next Monday and will face Egypt in a friendly on Tuesday, December 16.
The Super Eagles will begin their tournament journey on December 23, taking on Tanzania at the Complexe Sportif de Fès in Fès. On the same day, Tunisia will clash with Uganda at the Stade Annexe of Prince Moulay in Rabat.
