Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has warned Nigeria’s new invitees that breaking into the national team will require far more than simply earning a first call-up.
The Franco-Malian tactician made the remarks ahead of Nigeria’s Unity Cup semi-final clash against Zimbabwe at The Valley later today.
Chelle handed invitations to seven Nigeria Premier Football League players for the tournament while also introducing fresh faces such as Arthur Okonkwo and Femi Azeez.
But the 48-year-old made it clear that opportunities in the Super Eagles setup must be earned through exceptional performances and consistency.
“It is very difficult to enter into the national team,” Chelle said during his pre-match press conference.
The former Mali coach then pointed to the fierce competition across every department of the squad.
“If you want to play at centre-back, you have Calvin Bassey, Semi Ajayi, Benjamin Fredericks, Igoh Ogbu and Emmanuel Fernandez.
“If you want to play as a full-back, you have Ola Aina, Bruno Onyemaechi, Osayi-Samuel and Zaidu.”
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Chelle reserved special praise for Alex Iwobi while explaining the standards required in midfield.
“If you want to play in the midfield, you know the magician, Alex Iwobi. The reality is that you have to be better than all of these guys to play in that team.”
The former RC Lens defender also challenged Nigeria’s attacking hopefuls by highlighting the presence of Victor Osimhen in the squad.
“You want to play as a striker? Victor Osimhen is the best striker in the world.
“So, they can come, but they have to do everything.”
Despite the warning, Chelle insisted the door remains open for any player willing to match the intensity and hunger required at international level.
“But the intensity, the aggressivity and desire must be there. So, if you desire to play, I have no problem with that,” he added.
Nigeria face Zimbabwe this evening in London before concluding the Unity Cup campaign on Saturday.
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The Super Eagles are also expected to face Portugal and Poland in upcoming international friendlies as preparations continue for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying series, which begins in September.
