Since his return to the Nigerian Professional Football League (NPFL), Ahmed Musa has continued to make an impact, both on and off the pitch. The 32-year-old’s leadership and experience have been instrumental in raising expectations within the league, where he has become a major figure, reminiscent of his rise to prominence as a teenager in 2009.
Musa has carved out an iconic legacy over the years, and it seems there may still be more to give. His future could involve leading a team to the African Nations Championship (CHAN), an opportunity he may choose to pursue if the stars align.
However, Musa’s participation in the 2025 CHAN is currently in doubt due to competition regulations. According to Article 38.2 of the CHAN rules, only players with a permanent contract with a local club affiliated with their national association are eligible to compete. Musa’s return to Kano Pillars in October was marked by the signing of a formal contract, which includes an exit clause. While there’s still the potential for Musa to play in the competition, his eligibility is hindered by this stipulation.
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Additionally, the 32-year-old could still make a return abroad for what might be his final overseas contract. There’s a chance Musa might aim to help Nigeria qualify for and win the 2025 CHAN, adding to his already impressive list of achievements, including an Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) title. However, his recent experiences with the national team suggest that this could be an uphill battle.
Musa’s relationship with the Super Eagles coaching staff has been rocky, particularly during the 2021 AFCON. As captain, Musa played only 27 minutes in the tournament. Interim coach Austin Eguavoen relegated him to the bench, giving him just 25 minutes in Nigeria’s second group game and a mere 2 minutes in the disappointing round of 16 defeat to Tunisia. Musa was reportedly unhappy with his limited playing time, hinting that it could be his last AFCON, although he did return for subsequent campaigns.
The tension between Musa and Eguavoen was evident, with sources revealing that internal mediation was required to keep the peace in the Super Eagles camp. Even when the team traveled to Côte d’Ivoire for the 2023 AFCON, Musa’s playing time continued to diminish. He did not feature at all during the competition, despite being assigned a role behind the scenes.
Now, with Eguavoen back at the helm of the CHAN team and his involvement with the Super Eagles uncertain, Musa has yet to make any public statements regarding his availability for the tournament. His focus seems to remain firmly on his club career and leadership within the NPFL.
Given these dynamics, it seems increasingly unlikely that Musa will return to play for the Super Eagles, at least not in the near future. His legacy in the national team could very well be defined by the moments he has already delivered, and a return to the Super Eagles may not be part of that equation.