Eric Chelle Initiates Super Eagles Squad Overhaul After AFCON Bronze
Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has begun a significant restructuring of Nigeria's national football team following their bronze medal achievement at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco. While the third-place finish demonstrated progress, Chelle has identified areas requiring improvement as Nigeria prepares for upcoming AFCON qualifiers in March and World Cup qualification campaigns.
Five Players Facing Exclusion from Future Squads
Eric Chelle is reportedly considering dropping up to five players from the Super Eagles squad that competed in Morocco. This strategic move aims to create stronger competition in every position and build a team capable of challenging for major honors in the coming years. While key performers like Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman, and Calvin Bassey remain central to his plans, several players failed to impress during the tournament.
Defensive Changes on the Horizon
Zaidu Sanusi appears most vulnerable following his limited involvement in Morocco. The FC Porto defender played just two matches during AFCON 2025 according to Fotmob statistics, losing his starting position to Bruno Onyemaechi and failing to regain it even for the third-place match. With Ola Aina also providing left-back coverage, Chelle now possesses alternatives he evidently trusts more in this crucial defensive role.
Chidozie Awaziem represents another defensive player facing an uncertain future with the national team. The France-based defender, who has served as a dependable squad member since 2018, saw his role diminish significantly during the tournament. Igho Ogbu received preference ahead of him in the playoff match against Egypt, signaling a clear shift in the defensive pecking order that suggests Awaziem is being gradually phased out of Chelle's plans.
Attacking Options Under Review
Chidera Ejuke entered the tournament with considerable expectations but failed to make a meaningful impact for Nigeria. The Sevilla winger, who has made thirteen senior appearances for Nigeria according to Transfermarkt data, was expected to provide directness and creativity from wide areas. However, his defensive shortcomings were exposed during the match against Tunisia, after which he made only a late substitute appearance in the bronze medal game against Egypt.
Midfield Adjustments and Future Planning
Ebenezer Akinsanmiro's situation differs somewhat from other players facing exclusion. The Italy-based youngster was initially touted as a potential challenger to Alex Iwobi in midfield and even described as Chelle's tactical "joker" before the tournament. However, a disappointing friendly performance against Egypt prior to AFCON and zero minutes played in Morocco suggest his omission may represent a temporary pause rather than permanent exclusion, allowing him time to develop further at club level.
Usman Mohammed represents the most straightforward case among potential departures. His initial inclusion in the AFCON squad raised eyebrows from the beginning, and the thirty-one-year-old midfielder never made a matchday list throughout the entire tournament. With younger alternatives emerging and Chelle clearly prioritizing players who can develop with the team over the next competitive cycle, Mohammed's chances of returning appear minimal.
Contract Extension Talks Underway
In related developments, the Director General of Nigeria's National Sports Commission has confirmed ongoing contract extension discussions with Eric Chelle. The coach has completed one year of his initial two-year contract signed when the Nigeria Football Federation appointed him in January 2025, indicating confidence in his long-term vision for the Super Eagles despite the impending squad changes.
Chelle's selection philosophy during AFCON 2025 revealed a clear preference for building around players with growth potential rather than relying on short-term solutions. This approach suggests the upcoming squad adjustments represent the beginning of a carefully planned transition period as Nigeria aims to build upon their bronze medal achievement and compete more effectively in future continental and global tournaments.
