Eric Chelle has named a solid midfield lineup for Nigeria’s upcoming World Cup qualifiers against Rwanda and Zimbabwe, Footynaija.com reports.
With a mix of Premier League regulars, rising stars, and players proving their worth across Europe, the battle for starting spots will be intense. But who’s the best right now?
Let’s break it down based on their current goals, assists, and market value.
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1. Alex Iwobi
Nigeria’s most valuable midfielder at €25 million, Iwobi continues to show his importance at club and international level. With 7 goals and 3 assists in 32 appearances, he has been a creative force, linking midfield to attack, for the English side.
His versatility, work rate, and Premier League experience make him one of Chelle’s most reliable players. He’s likely to be a guaranteed starter.
2. Wilfred Ndidi
Despite injury setbacks, Ndidi remains one of Nigeria’s most experienced midfielders, holding a market value of €18 million.
He has made 20 appearances for Leicester City this season, contributing 1 goal and 4 assists while helping his side push for a survival in the English Premier League. When fit, his defensive qualities make him irreplaceable in the squad.
3. Raphael Onyedika
Currently valued at €16 million, Raphael Onyedika is a defensive-minded midfielder but still manages to impact the attack.
With 2 goal and 2 assists in 39 games for Club Brugge, he has been key in controlling the midfield. His work rate and ball-winning skills make him an important squad player for Nigeria.
4. Frank Onyeka
Onyeka, with a market value of €9 million, has not exactly had the best of seasons since he moved to FC Augsburg.
In the German Bundesliga, he has just 2 assists in 27 appearances. However, his strength at ball interception, blocking the ball, and tackling make him a solid option for the Super Eagles.
5. Fisayo Dele-Bashiru
Dele-Bashiru has been turning heads for Lazio in the Italian Serie A, where his performances put him at a market value of €6 million.
The 24-year-old has racked up 5 goals and 2 assists in 23 appearances for Lazio, showing his attacking instincts.
His dribbling ability and attacking movement add something different to the Super Eagles midfield. He’s definitely one to watch.
6. Joe Aribo
Also at €6 million, Joe Aribo still carries high market value, but he has had an inconsistent season with Southampton.
In 31 appearances, he has recorded 3 goals, struggling for form. He’s a versatile option for Chelle but needs to step up his game to be guaranteed a starting spot.
7. Christantus Uche
Uche has been quietly making a name for himself in La Liga, registering 3 goals and 3 assists in 30 appearances for Getafe this season.
He is just 21 years old but his €5m market value shows his growing reputation. His ability to operate between the lines and influence play in the final third makes him an intriguing option.
8. Alhassan Yusuf Abdullahi
With a market value of €3 million, Alhassan Yusuf has made 3 appearances for New England this season.
His work rate and defensive ability make him an asset, even though he is currently not on the headlines with attacking stats.
9. Anthony Dennis
Dennis has quietly impressed in Turkey, playing 23 matches and providing 3 assists.
His €1.3m valuation suggests he is still developing, but his ability to dictate play in midfield makes him an interesting long-term prospect. If he maintains his form, his stock could continue to rise.
10. Papa Daniel Mustapha
Daniel is the only home-based midfielder in Chelle’s squad. Playing for Niger Tornadoes in the NPFL, he has contributed 3 goals and 2 assists in 18 appearances.
While he doesn’t have a known market value, his performances in the domestic league have earned him recognition. His inclusion shows that Chelle is willing to give local talents a chance.
Eric Chelle has a well-rounded midfield at his disposal, with Iwobi leading the way in value and experience. Yusuf and Dele-Bashiru bring attacking quality, while Ndidi and Onyedika provide defensive stability.
With competition for places heating up, performances in training and club form will determine who starts in the upcoming World Cup qualifiers.
