Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has explained why more foreign-born players are choosing to represent Nigeria, calling it a trend happening across Africa.
In comments shared by the Super Eagles Supporters Club on X, Chelle said a giant like Nigeria cannot be an exception as nations turn to their diaspora. The Malian, appointed in January to lead Nigeria's push for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, spoke during an interview with former international Dr. Segun Odegbami on Eagle7 103.7 FM.
Chelle said playing for a top club in Europe or being born abroad does not guarantee a place in his squad. Any new player, he said, must be better than established stars like Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman, Samuel Chukwueze and Wilfred Ndidi. Nigeria has the best players in Africa in almost every position, he noted, and a newcomer must be of a certain level and standard to compete with them. He added that the team has already turned down some foreign-born players who did not meet the requirement.
The remarks come as Nigeria prepares for a crucial 2026 World Cup qualifying playoff against Gabon in November in Morocco. Chelle has already secured commitments from diaspora players including defenders Felix Agu and Ryan Alebiosu and Wrexham goalkeeper Arthur Okonkwo, while London-born Rangers defender Emmanuel Fernandez is the latest to pledge allegiance to Nigeria.
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