Chukwuemeka & Ugochukwu: Have the Chelsea duo applied to play for Nigeria?

Reports that Chelsea duo Carney Chukwuemeka and Lesley Ugochukwu have submitted papers to switch their international allegiance from England and France to Nigeria have been dismissed, Soccernet.ng understands.

Both players who are currently plying their trade in English Premier League are eligible to play for both England and Nigeria.

Earlier reports suggested that the two midfielders had applied for a nationality switch and were included in the Super Eagles’ 31-man provisional squad for the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Rwanda and Zimbabwe.

No Official Application Yet

According to BBC journalist Oluwashina Okeleji, a top NFF official clarified that only the federation can apply for a player’s switch, refuting the claims that Chukwuemeka and Ugochukwu had initiated the process.

“Only a federation can apply on behalf of players if they intend to switch. The news circulating now is fake,” the official stated.

Carney Chukwuemeka of Chelsea during the UEFA Europa Conference League match at the Olympic Stadium of Athens. Photo by IMAGO

While there may have been discussions about the players’ potential inclusion in Nigeria’s squad, there is no official confirmation that they have begun the process to change their international allegiance.

Eric Chelle’s Appointment and Super Eagles’ Must-Win Fixtures

Meanwhile, Mali’s former head coach, Eric Chelle, has been appointed as the new head coach of the Super Eagles, taking charge ahead of Nigeria’s crucial World Cup qualifiers in March.

The three-time African champions are in dire need of victories against Rwanda and Zimbabwe to boost their chances of securing a spot in the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Eric Chelle (Photo credit: Imago)

With Nigeria’s midfield needing reinforcements, discussions have emerged in the Nigerian football community about whether Chukwuemeka and Ugochukwu—should they switch allegiance—would be valuable additions to Chelle’s squad.

Should Chelle Consider Chukwuemeka and Ugochukwu?

Both players offer exciting prospects for Nigeria. Chukwuemeka is an attacking midfielder, and has showcased his potential in the Premier League, while Ugochukwu, a defensive midfielder, provides stability in the middle of the park and is a perfect option for Wilfred Ndidi.

Wilfred Ndidi (Photo credit: Imago)

Their inclusion could strengthen the Super Eagles’ midfield options, especially when the team is sweating over Wilfred Ndidi’s full fitness before March.

However, with no official nationality switch yet, it remains uncertain whether they will be available for selection anytime soon.

For now, Chelle may have to focus on players already committed to Nigeria as he prepares for the critical March fixtures.

Ayomide Oguntimehin

Ayomide Oguntimehin is a CAF-accredited sports journalist and Editor at Soccernet.ng, with a proven track record in conducting interviews with Super Eagles stars such as William Troost-Ekong, Taiwo Awoniyi, Bright Osayi-Samuel, Ademola Lookman, and many others. He has also made a significant impact in breaking transfer news stories. Grounded in video editing, video journalism, social media management, and content strategy, Ayomide brings a wealth of expertise to his work.

Share
Published by
Ayomide Oguntimehin

Recent Posts

“Depends” – Former Super Eagles midfielder weighs in on the Haaland vs Isak debate

Former Super Eagles and Borussia Dortmund midfielder, Sunday Ogochukwu Oliseh, has weighed in the trendy… Read More

41 minutes ago

“My GOAT” – Davido snubs Lookman, Boniface, endorses 35-capped Super Eagles star

Nigerian music superstar Davido has publicly declared Napoli striker Victor Osimhen as his greatest of… Read More

2 hours ago

Is Ola Aina free to leave Nottingham Forest in the summer 2025 window?

Super Eagles defender Ola Aina will have his contract with the English Premier League contenders,… Read More

3 hours ago

Former Arsenal star tips Super Eagles forward for Celtic move after January setback

Former Arsenal and West Ham United striker John Hartson believes Scottish champions Celtic may reignite… Read More

6 hours ago

“More in the future” – Hoffenheim head coach highlights plans for new boy Gift Orban

TSG 1899 Hoffeinhem head coach, Christian Ilzer, has revealed his plans to slowly integrate Nigerian… Read More

7 hours ago

Super Eagles shake-up: Eric Chelle opens doors to Akpom, Tella & Uche as Nigeria prepare for Rwanda

Eric Chelle is set to make bold changes as he leads Nigeria's Super Eagles in… Read More

7 hours ago