Al Ain goalkeeper Hassan Sani has reportedly been left heartbroken after discovering that representing Nigeria could put his position at the UAE club and his future career at risk.

According to a report by OwnGoalNigeria on Tuesday, November 3, 2026, the 20-year-old goalkeeper was approached by Nigeria head coach Éric Chelle, who wanted to include him in the squad for the international friendly against Russia.

However, Sani was unable to accept the invitation because of concerns over the regulations governing foreign goalkeepers in the United Arab Emirates league.

The young shot-stopper has already obtained UAE citizenship, allowing him to enjoy local-player status at Al Ain. However, choosing to represent Nigeria could affect his eligibility status at the club and potentially threaten his place in the team.

A representative of the goalkeeper revealed that Sani was deeply emotional after learning about the situation, particularly because playing for Nigeria has always been one of his biggest dreams.

“He [Sani] was in tears when he was told he can't play for Nigeria, as he would lose his spot at the club and possibly jeopardise his career. His dream has always been to play for Nigeria, but sadly, his main option now is to play for the UAE,” his representative was quoted as saying.

The representative also expressed sadness over the circumstances, explaining that the situation was beyond the youngster's control and that he would have to make a decision that best protects his professional career.

“Some things happen that you can't control, and that is how life is. You can't always get what you want, but it's only normal to make the best of what you have at the moment,” the representative added.

Sani's situation comes as another disappointment for Chelle, who continues to monitor and assess available players as Nigeria prepares for the U-23 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers and the 2028 Olympic Games.

The Nigeria U-23 side, popularly known as the Olympic Eagles, are currently preparing for a two-legged qualifying tie against the Democratic Republic of Congo scheduled for November.

Nigeria will play the first leg away from home in Lubumbashi on November 13 before welcoming their opponents for the return encounter at the Remo Stars Stadium in Ikenne on November 17.

With his chances of representing Nigeria now uncertain because of his situation at Al Ain, Sani may eventually have to consider playing for the United Arab Emirates, the country that has granted him citizenship, if he remains eligible.