Nigeria head coach Eric Chelle has intensified efforts to identify new talent for the Super Eagles, with more than 500 Nigeria-eligible players now being monitored as part of an extensive scouting programme.
According to Afrik-Foot, the Franco-Malian coach has prioritised player recruitment since taking charge in early 2025, as he seeks to build a younger and more competitive squad following Nigeria’s failure to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Super Eagles global search gathers pace
Sources close to the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) said Chelle and his scouting team watch about 80 matches every weekend across Europe, Africa and Nigeria. Their database reportedly contains over 500 players eligible to represent the Super Eagles.
The initiative is designed to widen Nigeria’s talent pool rather than rely on established internationals.
Chelle is also using his position as Nigeria’s Under-23 coach to identify promising dual-nationality players early and integrate them into the national team setup.
Among the players reportedly being monitored are Arsenal youngsters Ethan Nwaneri and Ife Ibrahim, George Ilenikhena, Zadok Abu Yohanna, Uchenna Ogundu, Hafiz Umar, Promise Malinga and VfL Bochum midfielder Francis Onyeka.
Domestic talent also considered
The scouting exercise has already resulted in several new faces earning senior international debuts.
Femi Azeez, Benjamin Fredrick, Akor Adams, Tolu Arokodare, Ryan Alebiosu, Chibuike Nwaiwu, Emmanuel Fernandez, Salim Fago Lawal, Rafiu Durosinmi and Tochukwu Nnadi have all received opportunities under Chelle.
The former Mali coach has also maintained a strong presence at domestic competitions, attending Nigeria Premier Football League matches, youth tournaments and the Nigeria National League Super Four.
His visits have helped local players such as Papa Daniel, Kayode Bankole, Chibueze Oputa, Ayobami Adeoye and Oyedokun Junior earn places in recent Super Eagles squads.
The NFF is also expected to establish a dedicated scouting department focused on identifying talent from the NPFL and Nigeria National League, while plans are in place for one or two NPFL coaches to join Chelle’s Under-23 technical crew.
Despite the broad scouting network, Chelle has maintained that selection will be based on merit, with players required to demonstrate consistent performances, tactical discipline and physical readiness before receiving invitations to the national team.
