Boost for Eric Chelle With Impressive Star Reportedly Set to Dump Germany for Nigeria
- Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle is reportedly set to add another defender to his squad ahead of the international friendlies in June
- The coach has toured Europe to persuade Nigeria-eligible players who have yet to make their senior debut in their respective countries
- Nigeria is facing a tough challenge in qualifying for the 2026 World Cup following their disappointing performances in the March series
Nigeria coach Eric Chelle voiced concerns about the defence after their 2026 World Cup qualifier draw against Zimbabwe in Uyo on March 25.
Super Eagles captain William Troost-Ekong was singled out for failing to mark Tawanda Chirewa, who scored the equaliser in the 90th minute.
Nigeria's hopes of attending the tournament hang in the balance, having secured one win, four draws, and one loss in the qualifiers so far.
Source: Getty Images
Agu eyes Nigeria call-up from coach Chelle
The situation could be aided by Werder Bremen left-back Felix Agu, who has reportedly expressed his desire to play for the Super Eagles.
According to ScoreNigeria, the former Germany U21 player highlighted the strong bond between Nigerian players, which sets them apart from other teams.
Speaking about his future plans, the 25-year-old also described the Super Eagles jersey as one of the most prestigious in world football.
The former VfL Osnabruck player emphasised how Nigeria had transformed the global music scene and said, via OmasportsTv:
"I would be open to playing for Nigeria. We have players like Ola Aina, Alex Iwobi, William Troost-Ekong, Ademola Lookman, Victor Osimhen, and it would be a dream come true to see my father smile by representing my roots. That’s the truth."
“You don’t see this in Europe; I haven't experienced anything like it before. The Super Eagles is like a dream.
"Of course, I think Nigerian music is the best; we have some of the best artists in the world, like Burna Boy, Asake, Omah Lay, and Wizkid. My favourite food is jollof rice, and I also enjoy Egusi soup."
Source: Getty Images
NFF gets green light for Agu
The Nigeria Football Federation could apply for the 25-year-old Agu to change international allegiance after he played for the Germany U21 in 2019.
The defender, who is yet to make his senior debut, has scored three goals in 19 games across all competitions for his Bundesliga club, per Transfermarkt.
Meanwhile, Chelle, who was dissatisfied with the team’s performance during the World Cup qualifiers, was particularly frustrated by the 1-1 draw against Zimbabwe in front of home fans, per CAF.
The 47-year-old is reportedly planning to re-organise the Super Eagles' central defence following the sloppy defending that exposed some weaknesses and allowed the Warriors to rescue a point.
Chelle in England for Nwaneri
Legit.ng earlier reported that Eric Chelle wanted Arsenal star Ethan Nwaneri to represent Nigeria at the international level.
The former Mali coach was optimistic about the former England U-17 player possibly joining the three-time AFCON champions.
The attacking midfielder is still eligible to play for the Super Eagles, despite representing the Three Lions as a junior.
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Proofreading by Bruce Douglas, copy editor at Legit.ng.
Source: Legit.ng
Dare Kuti (Sports Editor) Dare Kuti is a CAVB-accredited journalist based in Nigeria. He is renowned for his work in football, volleyball, wrestling, taekwondo and handball. He has covered several major competitions including the African Games hosted by Morocco and Ghana, FIFA World Cup Qualifiers, CAF Events, as well as grassroots competitions across the continent. Email: dare.kuti@corp.legit.ng.
Bruce Douglas (Head of Copyeditors) Bruce Douglas has 13 years of experience in community media, including coverage of sports, human interest, crime and politics.
