The Super Eagles squad is finally here – and Éric Chelle has given Nigeria fans plenty to talk about.
Nigeria face Madagascar in Uyo on September 25 before taking on Guinea-Bissau four days later as their 2027 AFCON qualifying campaign gets underway. Chelle has kept the core of his squad together, but three first-time call-ups, some notable omissions and one major fitness question stand out.
Here are five big talking points from Nigeria’s latest squad announcement.
1. A New Generation Gets Its Chance
George Ilenikhena, Isaac James and Moses Usor have all received their first senior Super Eagles call-ups.
Ilenikhena arrives after scoring four goals and providing two assists in six league appearances for Al-Ittihad, while Usor has three goals and four assists across nine league and Champions League appearances for LASK. James, meanwhile, has started every league match for Alverca this season and offers Chelle versatility on the left side of defence.
It is an exciting glimpse at what the next generation of the Super Eagles could look like.
2. Osimhen Is In – But Will He Be Fit?
Perhaps the biggest surprise is Victor Osimhen’s inclusion.
Nigeria’s star striker has not played since suffering a groin injury for Galatasaray earlier this month, but Chelle has still named him in the 24-man squad. His inclusion keeps open the possibility of a return for the opening qualifiers, but his fitness will inevitably be closely watched before Madagascar.
3. Iheanacho’s Red-Hot Form Isn’t Enough
One of the most eye-catching omissions is Kelechi Iheanacho.
The experienced forward has been in outstanding club form, scoring nine goals in seven consecutive games for Bursaspor, yet he has not made the AFCON qualifier squad. He has instead been selected for Nigeria’s separate friendly against Russia in October, suggesting he remains firmly on Chelle’s radar.
4. Nigeria Have Serious Competition in Goal
Stanley Nwabali is back, but his place between the posts is far from guaranteed.
Nwabali returns alongside Maduka Okoye and Arthur Okonkwo, who impressed during Nigeria’s Unity Cup campaign. With Francis Uzoho left out altogether, Chelle now has three strong options competing to become his No.1.
5. Chelle Has Loaded Up on Attack
Even with doubts over Osimhen’s fitness, Nigeria will not be short of attacking options.
Alongside established names Ademola Lookman, Samuel Chukwueze and Moses Simon, Chelle has selected Akor Adams, Tolu Arokodare, Ilenikhena and Usor. Arokodare arrives in particularly impressive form with five goals and two assists from his opening seven appearances for Ajax.
It gives Chelle plenty of different options as Nigeria look to make a winning start to the road to AFCON 2027.
What Do You Think of the Super Eagles Squad?
Three new faces, some huge omissions and plenty of competition for places – has Chelle got his squad right?
Nigeria begin their campaign against Madagascar before facing Guinea-Bissau four days later.
