Super Eagles head coach has defended his decision to continue injecting new players into the Nigerian national team, insisting that constant competition and fresh energy are necessary if the team is to challenge for major honours.
READ ALSO: Basketball Federation President Musa Kida Reiterates Importance Of NBBF’s U18 Programme Schedule
The Franco-Malian tactician has come under scrutiny following a series of experimental selections during the recent Unity Cup tournament in London and the international friendly against Poland, where several new faces were handed opportunities in the senior national team.
Speaking on the team’s rebuilding process, Chelle explained that refreshing the squad with younger and hungry players is part of a long-term strategy aimed at strengthening the Super Eagles across all departments.
“We need to refresh the team and bring in young players with quality because competition is very important,” Chelle said.
“If you want to win trophies, every player must fight for his position. That competition helps improve the level of the squad.”
Among the players recently introduced into the national team setup are Arthur Okonkwo, Femi Azeez, Owen Oseni, Rafiu Durosinmi, Abdullahi Bewene and Christian Akpan.
Bewene earned his senior debut during Nigeria’s friendly clash against Poland, while Akpan received a late invitation as Chelle continued his assessment of emerging talents.
The coach has also maintained his commitment to scouting the Nigeria Premier Football League, with several home-based players earning invitations in recent camps.
According to Chelle, his technical crew monitors hundreds of Nigerian players across the world weekly in a bid to identify talents capable of fitting into the team’s tactical structure.
“We analyse many players every week because Nigeria has talent everywhere,” Chelle added.
“But to play for the Super Eagles, you must be ready physically, tactically and mentally. The national team demands a lot.”
Despite experimenting with new players, Chelle still retains experienced stars such as Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman as the core of the team, while gradually building a younger supporting cast for the future.
The ongoing rebuild is expected to continue as Nigeria intensifies preparations for upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers and the next Africa Cup of Nations campaign.
