In-form Trabzonspor striker Paul Onuachu is set to return to Nigeria’s provisional squad ahead of the Super Eagles’ crucial World Cup playoff clash with Gabon later this month, Soccernet.ng reports.
Reports from Turkey suggest head coach Eric Chelle has notified the Trabzonspor striker of his inclusion in the extended list, signalling a possible recall after a 521-day absence.
The towering forward last featured for Nigeria on June 10, 2024, in the 2-1 defeat to Benin Republic in 2024 World Cup qualifying. Nigeria’s next match is against Gabon on November 13, a game where Onuachu could make his long-awaited return.
Chelle has largely overlooked the 31-year-old since taking charge earlier this year, opting instead for Victor Osimhen, Terem Moffi, Tolu Arokodare, Akor Adams, Kelechi Iheanacho, and Cyriel Dessers. But with three of those forwards currently injured, the French-born tactician is re-evaluating his attacking options and Onuachu’s form has become too good to ignore.
In the early days of the 2025-26 Turkish Süper Lig campaign, Onuachu has been one of the most outstanding performers.
The 6ft 7in striker has scored seven goals and provided one assist in ten matches for Trabzonspor, topping the league’s scoring chart ahead of stars like Mauro Icardi and Rafa Silva.
His overhead kick against Fatih Karagümrük in September even earned him the Goal of the Month award.
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Onuachu: Chelle’s selection sends strong signal of merit-based policy
Chelle’s decision to include Onuachu, despite leaving him out for months, reflects a growing commitment to form-based selections.
According to reports, Nigeria’s technical staff have been closely monitoring the forward’s progress in Turkey, impressed by his consistency, aerial dominance, and poacher’s instincts inside the box.
Onuachu’s resurgence has also lifted morale at Trabzonspor, where fans and staff alike celebrated his national team call-up. Club vice-president Taner Fikret Saral described him as “a leader on and off the pitch,” presenting him with the Goal of the Month trophy before their match against Eyüpspor.
While it remains uncertain if he will make the final 23-man squad, Onuachu’s inclusion at this stage suggests Chelle values diversity in his forward line, particularly as a backup to star man, Osimhen.
The Super Eagles boss is believed to be seeking a tactical alternative capable of unlocking compact defences, and Onuachu’s height, power, and hold-up play offer exactly that.
With Nigeria desperate to book their spot at the 2026 World Cup, Chelle’s willingness to look beyond reputation and reward performance could prove decisive.
This could be the lifeline that reignites Onuachu’s international career and perhaps, Nigeria’s World Cup hopes.
