AFCON 2027 Qualifiers: Eric Chelle reveals why Samson Tijani and Tochukwu Nnadi made Super Eagles squad

Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has insisted that no player is guaranteed a place in Nigeria’s national team, explaining his decision to introduce fresh faces and recall Tochukwu Nnadi to the squad.

The Franco-Malian tactician has handed opportunities to Czech-based duo Mubarak Suleiman and Abdullahi Bewene, while former Golden Eaglets captain Samson Tijani also earns a chance to impress at senior international level.

Their invitations reflect Chelle’s willingness to expand his selection options and assess players capable of bringing different qualities to the Super Eagles.

Among the new arrivals, Suleiman stands out following an impressive campaign with Sparta Prague. The midfielder has registered five goals and three assists in 13 appearances across all competitions, performances that have earned him recognition from the national team coach.

His form in the Czech Republic has provided an opportunity to step up to the international stage, where he will be expected to demonstrate that his club performances can translate into contributions for Nigeria.

Chelle, speaking at his press conference, defended his selection decisions, stressing that representing the Super Eagles remains an opportunity available to every eligible footballer who proves deserving.

The coach explained that the selected players have qualities that could strengthen the team and are eager to demonstrate their capabilities.

“Like I said, the national team is not closed to anybody. If they are here, it is because they deserve to be here,” Chelle said.

He further dismissed suggestions that players who missed out on the latest selection had lost their chances of returning to the national team.

“They have something to bring, some new things. And for the other players, they are not in the squad. It doesn’t mean that the show is done.

“They want to show it to everybody, what they can do. They are very motivated. I don’t think they are scared”

Nnadi returns as Chelle widens selection options

The inclusion of new faces is complemented by the return of midfielder Tochukwu Nnadi, who gets another opportunity to establish himself in the Super Eagles setup.

Chelle’s selection approach suggests he is keen to assess a broader pool of talent rather than rely exclusively on familiar names.

The invitations to Suleiman, Bewene and Tijani also provide the coach with an opportunity to evaluate emerging options as he continues to shape his preferred squad.

For the invited players, however, selection represents only the beginning of the challenge.

They will need to deliver convincing performances in training and matches to justify Chelle’s confidence and improve their prospects of securing regular places in the national team.

With the coach making it clear that selection remains performance-based, the latest call-ups offer both an opportunity for newcomers and a reminder to established players that their positions are not guaranteed.