Eric Chelle has made several bold calls ahead of the Super Eagles’ Unity Cup title defense, with notable omissions, surprise recalls and fresh faces dominating the final squad list submitted to the Nigeria Football Federation.
Among the biggest talking points is the exclusion of Kelechi Iheanacho and Tolu Arokodare, despite both forwards attracting attention in recent weeks.
Kelechi Iheanacho celebrating his goal for Celtic. Photocredit: imago
Iheanacho had been strongly considered for a return following an impressive resurgence at Celtic, where the striker reportedly scored four goals in his last three matches. However, Chelle opted against recalling the experienced forward, instead choosing to hand opportunities to younger attacking options.
Among those benefiting are Owen Oseni of Plymouth Argyle and Rafiu Durosinmi, who recently endured relegation with Pisa.
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Arokodare also misses out amid growing uncertainty surrounding his form and standing following a difficult campaign with Wolverhampton Wanderers.
At the back, injury has forced Ryan Alebiosu out of contention. The Blackburn Rovers defender is set to undergo surgery and will not be available for the tournament.
Super Eagles Ryan Alebiosu. Photocredit: The NFF on X
His absence opens the door for the return of Felix Agu of Werder Bremen, who makes his comeback after missing the Africa Cup of Nations through injury.
Agu made his senior Nigeria debut at the Unity Cup last year and is now back fully fit as Chelle reshapes his defensive options ahead of the competition.
Nigeria will begin their title defence against Zimbabwe national football team, with either India national football team or Jamaica national football team awaiting in the final should they progress.
Taiwo Awoniyi. Photocredit: Getty Images
Elsewhere, Taiwo Awoniyi has reportedly asked to be excused from the squad despite initially being included by Chelle.
The Nottingham Forest striker, who recently scored a brace against Chelsea in the Premier League, is understood to be preparing for minor surgery at the end of the season a timeline that clashes with the tournament.
In his absence, Chelle has recalled Terem Moffi, who returns to the national setup after a prolonged absence. Moffi, currently on loan at FC Porto from Nice, recently celebrated a league title triumph in Portugal.
Super Eagles Nathan Tella
Also making a comeback is Nathan Tella of Bayer Leverkusen, who returns almost a year after his last involvement with the national team.
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Rather than leaning heavily on established names, the coach appears focused on competition, form, squad balance and long-term planning even if it means sidelining experienced internationals.
