Super Eagles coach, Eric Chelle
Head coach of the Nigeria national football team, Eric Chelle, has reaffirmed his readiness to scout and integrate players born outside the country as part of efforts to strengthen the Super Eagles.
Speaking through the Super Eagles Supporters Club on X, Chelle revealed that several foreign-born players with Nigerian roots have shown interest in representing the country. However, he stressed that only those who meet the team’s standards will be considered.
“We have a couple of players who were born abroad, who want to play for the team and we are looking at how they will fit in. We can’t bring all of them into the team,” the supporters’ club quoted him as saying.
The coach further made it clear that selection into the national team will not be influenced by popularity, public pressure, or social media campaigns.
“We will however pick those that we know can bring competition to the team, improve the team and also fit our game project.”
In recent months, discussions around dual-nationality players have intensified among Nigerian football fans, with many calling for the inclusion of overseas-based talents to reinforce the squad.
Chelle’s comments, however, suggest that passion alone will not guarantee a place in the team. According to him, only players who can add real value, raise competition levels, and align with his tactical vision will earn the opportunity to wear the green and white jersey.
For the Super Eagles boss, commitment, quality, and contribution remain the key requirements—while others who fall short will have to wait for their chance.
