Malian gaffer, Eric Chelle, has sparked mixed reactions in the Nigerian football community with the announcement of his 39-man squad list, Soccernet.ng reports.
The former RC Lens defender has named his first squad list as the new Super Eagles boss, doing so in a manner different from his predecessors.
Instead of the usual 23-man final list for each opponent, he has opted for a broader selection, from which 23 players will eventually be chosen.
Many believe the former Mali international made this decision to appease certain individuals, while others see it as a strategic move for the upcoming fixture.
Eric Chelle’s list: Too Large?
The 39-man provisional list mostly provides opportunities for evaluation ahead of a match. No doubt, the team has a depth of talent who are plying their trades in Europe.
This gives more of these players the chance to prove themselves more with the upcoming domestic league matches before camp finally opens.
Personally, this approach allows Chelle to test different combinations and even formations before finalising his squad for the crucial encounter.
Moreover, few squad list announcements have seen players pick injuries that spark last-minute withdrawals and changes. This opens the chance for a quick and organized replacement.
Additionally, inviting more players could boost competition within the team, and the most in-form and dedicated individuals will make the final cut.
The Downsides of an Oversized Squad
On the flip side, naming such a large squad creates unnecessary distractions. Some names in the squad list seem unnecessary and would be unfair for the younger talents if they eventually make the final list.
Some players have recently picked up an injury and some just returning from injury, which makes it look like the coach has something planned before camp opens.
More so, If Chelle does not manage expectations properly, it could result in dissatisfaction among those who frequently find themselves cut before matchday.
Squad Breakdown and Key Players
Chelle has included a mix of Super Eagles’ top stars and fresh faces in his 39-man squad for the 2026 World Cup qualifiers against Rwanda and Zimbabwe.
Notable inclusions are Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman, and Wilfred Ndidi, who are expected to bring their club momentum into the national team setup. Ahmed Musa also made his return to the squad following his performance for Kano Pillars this season.
The squad comprises five goalkeepers, ten defenders, ten midfielders, and fourteen forwards, which gives room for options. However, players like Osimhen, Lookman, and Bassey are expected to play pivotal roles in securing maximum points from the upcoming matches.
Is It the Right Call?
Ultimately, Chelle’s decision will be judged based on results. If the Super Eagles perform well in their upcoming matches against Rwanda and Zimbabwe, his strategy will be validated.
However, if team chemistry and tactical cohesion suffer, it would be argued that a more streamlined squad would have been the better approach.
