sports

Eric Chelle Targets Foreign-Born Stars for Super Eagles Boost

Published

2 months ago

February 17, 2026

Eric Chelle foreign-born players plan gathers pace as Super Eagles coach secures new dual-national commitments ahead of March games

Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has intensified efforts to recruit dual-nationality talent, securing fresh commitments as part of his strategy to strengthen Nigeria’s national team.

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The Malian tactician has already won the allegiance of defenders Felix Agu and Ryan Alebiosu, alongside Arthur Okonkwo of Wrexham A.F.C.. Talks are also ongoing with five other eligible players.

Reports indicate that Emmanuel Fernandez, who plays for Rangers F.C., has pledged his international future to Nigeria.

The 24-year-old centre-back was born in London to Nigerian parents and has emerged as one of the Scottish League’s standout performers this season.

“We have a couple of players who were born abroad, who want to play for the team and we are looking at how they will fit in. We can’t bring all of them into the team,” Chelle said in remarks shared by the Super Eagles Supporters Club.

“We will however pick those that we know can bring competition to the team, improve the team and also fit our game project.”

Fernandez has scored four goals in 17 appearances this season and won Rangers’ Player of the Month award for January.

The defender was reportedly close to a move to Borussia Dortmund during the January transfer window.

The renewed push for Eric Chelle foreign-born players follows Nigeria’s third-place finish at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.

That squad featured several dual-nationality stars, including Semi Ajayi, Calvin Bassey, Alex Iwobi, Ademola Lookman, Ryan Alebiosu and Fisayo Dele-Bashiru.

Chelle’s calculated recruitment drive signals a decisive shift towards deeper competition within the squad.