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Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has confirmed that several key players will not be available for Nigeria’s upcoming international friendlies against Poland and Portugal, including star forwards Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman.
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Speaking before the matches, Chelle revealed that Osimhen’s absence is related to circumstances surrounding the off-season period, while Lookman will miss the matches due to personal reasons.
“As for Victor Osimhen, he is an important player for Nigeria and Galatasaray. This period is the off-season, when a lot of things happen off the field and we must respect certain decisions that are not in our hands,” Chelle said.
The Nigerian strategist also revealed that the reigning African Player of the Year, Ademola Lookman, would not be available for selection.
“Ademola Lookman will not be available for personal reasons,” he added.
The list of absences extends beyond the attacking duo. Chelle confirmed that Femi Azeez, who impressed during the Unity Cup, will not be involved after his club refused to release him for the remaining international matches.
The coach further explained that midfielders Alhassan Yusuf and Tijani Samson could not join the squad due to visa-related issues, while Ebenezer Akinsanmiro is ruled out due to illness.
“Femi Azeez had a decent performance in the Unity Cup, but his club will not release him for the remaining matches. Alhassan Yusuf and Tijani Samson do not have entry visas and Ebenezer Akinsanmiro is not feeling well,” Chelle said.
Despite growing concerns over injuries and availability, the Super Eagles coach insists that Nigeria will approach both friendlies with full commitment.
“The next matches are friendly and I will approach each match seriously with the players available,” he stated.
The matches against Poland and Portugal present another opportunity for Chelle to assess his team’s depth and test new combinations as Nigeria continues preparations for future competitive assignments, including the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers and the 2027 African Cup of Nations campaign.
With several established stars absent, the friendlies could offer fringe players and emerging talents a valuable opportunity to claim regular places in the national team set-up.
