“If Chelle picks me, I’ll be happy” – Says Super Eagles star who broke Lyon’s heart

Super Eagles defender Igoh Ogbu has expressed his readiness to make his long-awaited debut for Nigeria after being included in the squad for the upcoming 2025 Unity Cup, Soccernet.ng reports.

The 25-year-old Slavia Prague centre-back was named among the new faces invited by head coach Eric Chelle, who continues to prepare the team ahead of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations tournament and the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.

Despite not making an appearance during his first call-up—where Nigeria defeated Rwanda in Kigali and returned home to draw Zimbabwe—Ogbu remains optimistic.

“When it comes to playing, every player wants to play,” Ogbu told Afrik Foot NG. “I have no doubt in my ability, and I’ll keep doing what I do. If the coach picks me, I’ll be happy to play.”

Speaking further, the former Lillestrøm defender added that patience is key in international football.

“When the time comes, everyone will get his chance. It’s football—everyone just has to keep working hard and wait for his moment.”

Ogbu recently made headlines after putting pen to paper on a one-year contract extension with Czech champions Slavia Prague, cooling talks of a summer move to France.

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Ligue 1 giants Lyon, Lille, and Lens were reportedly interested in securing his services following a solid season in the Czech top flight.

The contract renewal now puts any potential switch to Lyon on ice, dealing a blow to the French club's hopes of landing the Nigerian defender—hence, breaking Lyon’s heart.

At the mini tournament, Ogbu will be hoping to convince Chelle of his quality and finally earn his first Super Eagles cap.