Over 500 Nigerian-eligible players are currently being watched as part of a comprehensive scouting operation, as Nigeria head coach Eric Chelle has stepped his attempts to find new potential for the Super Eagles.
Afrik-Foot claims that after taking over in early 2025, the Franco-Malian coach has made player acquisition a top priority in an effort to assemble a younger and more competitive team in the wake of Nigeria's failure to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Chelle and his scouting staff watch over 80 games per weekend in Europe, Africa, and Nigeria, according to people close to the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF). More than 500 athletes who could play for the Super Eagles are supposedly included in their database.
Instead than depending on well-known foreigners, the project aims to expand Nigeria's talent pool.
In addition, Chelle is utilising his role as Nigeria's Under-23 coach to spot potential dual-national athletes early on and include them into the national squad.
Ethan Nwaneri and Ife Ibrahim of Arsenal, George Ilenikhena, Zadok Abu Yohanna, Uchenna Ogundu, Hafiz Umar, Promise Malinga, and Francis Onyeka, a midfielder for VfL Bochum, are among the players allegedly under observation.
Several new faces have already made their senior international debuts as a result of the scouting operation.
Chelle has given opportunities to Femi Azeez, Benjamin Fredrick, Akor Adams, Tolu Arokodare, Ryan Alebiosu, Chibuike Nwaiwu, Emmanuel Fernandez, Salim Fago Lawal, Rafiu Durosinmi, and Tochukwu Nnadi.
The former Mali coach has also continued to be active in domestic events, participating in youth competitions, the Nigeria National League Super Four, and Nigeria Premier Football League games.
Local players like Papa Daniel, Kayode Bankole, Chibueze Oputa, Ayobami Adeoye, and Oyedokun Junior have been able to secure spots in recent Super Eagles selections because to his trips.
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