Eric Chelle has unveiled two separate squads for Nigeria’s upcoming fixtures, notably omitting star forward Victor Osimhen while handing a surprise recall to veteran Ahmed Musa.
The move comes as part of the Super Eagles’ strategic preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers and the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.
Chelle, who took charge of Nigeria following a stint with Mali, is looking to build squad depth and evaluate new talent in a series of international matches that begin with the Unity Cup in London and conclude with a friendly against Russia.
Set to run from 26 to 31 May in the British capital, the Unity Cup will see Nigeria take on Ghana on 28 May, followed by either Jamaica or Trinidad and Tobago on 31 May.
This tournament, a celebration of Afro-Caribbean heritage, has prompted Chelle to assemble a largely experimental side. The squad features nine players from the Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) and gives a platform to several fringe players.
Roster for the #UnityCup2025 and the International Friendly vs Russia #TheUnityCup2025 #NGARUS #SoarSuperEagles pic.twitter.com/BPc8waTP7r
— 🇳🇬 Super Eagles (@NGSuperEagles) May 21, 2025
“Unity Cup is an opportunity to test domestic talents and broaden our options,” Chelle said in a statement accompanying the squad announcement.
The most notable inclusion in this list is Ahmed Musa.
The 31-year-old, who last featured for Nigeria over a year ago, makes a surprise comeback to the national setup.
Chelle also named German-based Felix Agu (Werder Bremen), although the full-back is currently ineligible for official matches and will participate solely for evaluation purposes.
Key names such as Osimhen, Ademola Lookman, Alex Iwobi, and Victor Boniface have been rested for this phase of the tour.
Attention then turns to a high-profile friendly against Russia on 6 June in Moscow.
For this fixture, Chelle is recalling many of the Super Eagles’ senior players, including William Troost-Ekong, Ola Aina, and Boniface.
However, Osimhen is again absent, with the Napoli striker granted additional rest following a physically demanding season.
Of the nine NPFL players called up for the Unity Cup, only one will remain with the squad for the Russia match.
The rest will make way for established internationals.
Chelle’s approach underscores a long-term vision to refresh the squad while maintaining a competitive core. “We’re not just preparing for one tournament,” he noted. “This is about laying a foundation for sustained success.”
Nigeria’s full squad lists for both engagements reflect a balance between experimentation and experience as Chelle seeks the right blend ahead of a critical period in Nigerian football.
