Eric Chelle‘s coaching stint in charge of the Super Eagles begun under intense scrutiny after Nigeria’s inconsistent performances in March’s 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.
A 2-0 away win over Rwanda, courtesy of Victor Osimhen‘s clinical brace, briefly reignited belief. But the euphoria quickly faded following a disappointing 1-1 draw at home against Zimbabwe in Uyo – a result that left fans questioning Nigeria’s tactical identity and squad depth.
Now back in Europe, Chelle is reportedly working behind the scenes to bolster his options by exploring fresh talent – particularly players of Nigerian descent making waves at top European clubs.
Here’s Soccernet.ng‘s detailed look at four critical positions in the Super Eagles squad that require urgent reinforcement, and the most promising candidates available to fill those gaps.
Nigeria’s Left-Back
Once a position of strength with legends like Celestine Babayaro, Ifeanyi Udeze, and Taiye Taiwo, Nigeria’s left-back spot has gradually thinned out.
Jamilu Collins, now 30, is no longer in the Super Eagles plans. Zaidu Sanusi has been ravaged by injuries since AFCON 2023, and Fulham’s Calvin Bassey has transitioned permanently into central defence.
That leaves Bruno Onyemaechi of Olympiakos as the only recognised left-back – but Chelle doesn’t seem fully convinced, opting instead to deploy right-back Ola Aina on the left in both recent qualifiers.
That stop-gap solution must end. Aina is Nigeria’s top right-back and should be preserved there.
Guess who?
— Super Eagles (@NGSuperEagles) April 8, 2025
: pic.twitter.com/6cQzfgH3rV
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Chelle has options: Solomon Agbalaka, now with FC Sochi, impressed during the U20 World Cup and deserves monitoring.
Genk’s Christian Akpan and FC Lorient’s Isaac James – both just 20 – are talented, progressive full-backs with strong potential.
In the short term, Bassey could be shifted back to left-back, provided a commanding centre-back partner is brought in to maintain defensive balance.
Centre-Back
The Super Eagles have leaned on Leon Balogun, Kenneth Omeruo, Semi Ajayi, Chidozie Awaziem, and Kevin Akpoguma in recent years – all solid but rarely elite at international level.
Chelle’s recent squad selection suggested a shift, with newcomers Jordan Torunarigha and Igoh Ogbu brought into the fold.
Torunarigha, in particular, has impressed at KAA Gent with his physicality and composure, and could become a long-term pillar for Nigeria. But more competition is needed.
Chelsea’s Tosin Adarabioyo and Leicester City’s Caleb Okoli – eligible for Nigeria through parentage – would be massive additions if Chelle can convince them to switch allegiance.
Auxerre’s Gabriel Osho is another solid candidate, while 21-year-old Chibuike Nwaiwu (Wolfsberger AC) and 19-year-old Vince Osuji (Club Brugge) are exciting, emerging prospects.
One to keep an eye on: Olisa Ndah. If the Orlando Pirates defender can overcome persistent injury problems, he offers a calm, modern defensive profile that Chelle might value highly.
Central Midfield
Wilfred Ndidi, Alhassan Yusuf and Frank Onyeka bring grit and experience, but the current midfield lacks variety and creative edge.
Fisayo Dele-Bashiru, now at Lazio, was unavailable last window due to injury, but the ex-Manchester City academy product could be Chelle’s wildcard. His dynamism and ability to operate between lines make him ideal for modern systems.
Chelsea’s Carney Chukwuemeka and Lesley Ugochukwu – both eligible for Nigeria – would instantly elevate the technical ceiling of the team, if interested.
Everton’s Tim Iroegbunam and Inter Milan’s 20-year-old Ebenezer Akinsanmiro also present intriguing options, with Akinsanmiro known for his press resistance and passing range.
One player Chelle must trust more is Club Brugge’s Raphael Onyedika. At 23, he’s a deep-lying playmaker with a superior passing range to any current midfielder in the squad.
Chelle has already taken note of 20-year-old Anthony Dennis (Göztepe), who could add vertical drive in midfield. Building a new core around Onyedika and Dele-Bashiru could prove game-changing.
Right Wing
Once the domain of legends like Finidi George Segun Odegbami, Tijani Babangida and Ahmed Musa, Nigeria’s right wing is crying out for a consistent threat.
We’ve had some amazing NO. 7s. Your favourite? #tbt pic.twitter.com/R5SCPAC3up
— Super Eagles (@NGSuperEagles) April 10, 2025
Samuel Chukwueze’s form has dipped significantly, while the likes of Kelechi Iheanacho, Nathan Tella, and Chidera Ejuke are not natural wide players – and haven’t impressed enough to nail down the role.
Chelle is reportedly targeting Arsenal prodigy Ethan Nwaneri. But prising the 17-year-old away from England’s youth setup will be a major challenge.
If that doesn’t materialise, Red Star Belgrade’s Peter Olayinka offers a proven alternative. Powerful, experienced, and versatile, Olayinka is a consistent performer across the frontline and brings a winning mentality.
Gaziantep’s David Okereke and OH Leuven’s Chukwubuikem Ikwuemesi are also capable of offering directness and goal threat from wide areas.
Soccernet.ng’s verdict: Time for smart decisions
Eric Chelle’s Super Eagles rebuild will depend not just on tactics, but also on bold selection calls and a clear understanding of the available talent pool. The gaps in left-back, centre-back, midfield, and right wing have long limited Nigeria’s ability to dominate the continent.
But with a new wave of dual-national talents emerging across Europe, Chelle has a golden opportunity to reshape Nigeria’s future – one smart decision at a time.
The ball is firmly in his court.
