Eric Chelle has left out key stars including Victor Osimhen and Stanley Nwabali from Nigeria’s squad for upcoming friendlies against Iran and Jordan.
The Nigeria Football Federation confirmed a 23-man squad on Wednesday, featuring a mix of experienced players and new faces as the coach reshapes the team.
Captain Wilfred Ndidi returns alongside Alex Iwobi, while Ademola Lookman is expected to lead the attack in Osimhen’s absence.
The squad also sees the return of Maduka Okoye, who will compete for the starting role, with support from Adeleye Adebayo and Francis Uzoho.
In attack, options include Samuel Chukwueze, Moses Simon, Chidera Ejuke, and Paul Onuachu, while new invites Philip Otele and Collins Yira Sor earn their first call-ups.
Nigeria will face Iran on March 27 and Jordan on March 31, with both matches set to be played in Antalya, Turkey, following a venue change due to tensions in the Middle East.
Chelle’s selection signals a strategic shift as he tests new combinations and evaluates options ahead of future competitions.
