Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has confirmed that
key forwards Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman will not be part of Nigeria’s
squad for the upcoming international friendlies against Poland and Portugal.
Speaking ahead of the matches, Chelle explained that
Osimhen was excused from national team duties due to uncertainty surrounding
his club future and the need to allow him focus on important career decisions.
According to the coach, the striker may be involved in
a potential transfer move and should remain fully fit rather than risk playing
without being in optimal condition.
Osimhen, who currently plays for Galatasaray, has been
linked with several top European clubs in recent months, fueling speculation
about his next destination.
Nigeria will also be without former African Player of
the Year Ademola Lookman. Chelle disclosed that the forward has been granted a
rest period following a physically demanding season at club level.
The coach revealed that Lookman's club requested that
he be released from international duty to recover from fatigue after an intense
campaign in Europe.
The absence of both players represents a significant
setback for the Super Eagles, as they have been among Nigeria’s most
influential attacking performers in recent years.
Osimhen has consistently played a leading role in
Nigeria’s attack, while Lookman enjoyed another successful season in European
football, helping his club reach the semi-finals of the UEFA Champions League.
In addition to the loss of the two star forwards,
Chelle disclosed that the team has faced administrative challenges, with some
players encountering visa-related difficulties ahead of the trip.
Despite these obstacles, the coach expressed
confidence in his squad’s ability to compete against two strong European
opponents.
He stressed that Nigeria would approach both fixtures
with determination and a fighting spirit, regardless of the challenges facing
the team.
Chelle described Poland as a quality side preparing
for the FIFA World Cup and labelled Portugal as one of the strongest national
teams in world football.
The friendlies are expected to provide valuable
experience for the Super Eagles as the coach continues to build and reshape the
squad following Nigeria’s failure to qualify for the FIFA World Cup.
While admitting his disappointment over missing out on
the tournament, Chelle said the upcoming matches could serve as an important
opportunity for growth and development for both himself and the team.
The encounters against Poland and Portugal are
expected to offer Nigeria a crucial test against top-level opposition as
preparations continue for future international competitions.
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