Eric Chelle made his first squad announcement as head coach of the Super Eagles on Monday, naming a 39-man provisional list ahead of Nigeria’s crucial 2026 World Cup qualifying games against Rwanda and Zimbabwe this month, Footynaija.com reports.
Chelle’s selection has generated a bit of controversy from different quarters. While the size of the provisional squad means that there are more than enough options to make his final selection from, the omission of some players still caused some raised eyebrows.
In this piece, Footynaija.com reveals three surprise names snubbed by Chelle during his selection.
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3. Ani Ozoemena
Given Chelle’s inclusion of stars from the Nigeria Professional Football league, the omission of Ozoemena, Enyimba International’s goalkeeper who represented the CHAN Eagles in goal during their recent qualifier comes as a surprise.
The inclusion of Kayode Bankole, who deputized for Ozoemena during their time with the CHAN Eagles makes the 24-year-old’s exclusion even more surprising.
2. Leon Balogun
One of the most experienced defenders available to the Super Eagles of Nigeria at 36 years old, many may have expected Chelle to hand Balogun a national team recall following Semi Ajayi’s unfortunate hamstring injury.
However, the new Super Eagles boss has opted for an injection of fresh blood and youth to the Super Eagles backline. Despite Balogun’s recent public declaration of his desire to keep representing the Nigeria national team, it appears the doors remain closed for now.
1. Chuba Akpom
Perhaps the most surprising exclusion from Chelle’s squad announcement, Akpom has been left out of the scheme of things despite his recent form and performances evidencing his meriting a call-up.
Chelle’s inclusion of players like Kelechi Iheanacho and Joe Aribo -players who have struggled for form and game time this season- while leaving out an in-form player like Akpom, makes one wonder about his criteria for selection.
