Nigeria’s Super Eagles will begin a new chapter following their bronze medal finish at the Africa Cup of Nations with friendly matches against Iran and Jordan next month.
The fixtures are expected to serve as a foundation for the team’s long-term rebuilding process after missing out on recent global tournaments.
Eric Chelle is expected to lead the squad next month despite ongoing discussions surrounding his contract, as he reportedly seeks improved terms to extend his stay with the national team.
Regardless, preparations for the next phase of the Super Eagles project are already underway, with a strong focus on scouting fresh talents who can strengthen the squad and gradually replace aging players.
It is understood that the rebuilding process will start during the upcoming international window, with new players set to be integrated into the team.
A member of the technical committee of the Nigeria Football Federation exclusively told Footy-Africa that several new names are likely to feature in the squad for the mini-tournament in Amman.
“Even before the Africa Cup of Nations, the coach has been looking around and scouting for new players he thinks can add value to the team,” he said. “The Federation have already given him the go-ahead to scout for players, both at home and abroad.”
Kpakor urges NFF, Eric Chelle to begin Super Eagles rebuild with March friendlies
“We were lucky to get Ryan Alebiosu and he even made the team, but there are still some players in the pipeline. I am sure whoever he gets will make the team stronger so that we can start planning ahead for the next AFCON and the World Cup qualifiers,” he concluded.
With this in mind, Footy-Africa highlights some players reportedly in contention for their maiden call-ups.
Arthur Okonkwo, Wrexham (England)
Former Arsenal academy goalkeeper Arthur Okonkwo has long been on Nigeria’s radar and was previously considered for a call-up to the country’s Under-20 side a few years ago.
His steady development in England has kept him firmly in the thoughts of the national team selectors.
Now starring for Wrexham, the towering shot-stopper is enjoying a strong campaign as the club push for promotion.
There are growing indications from the Glass House that the time may finally be right for him to earn his maiden Super Eagles invitation.
Standing at 6’5”, Okonkwo has featured in 34 matches this season and continues to impress with his command of the box and distribution.
The 24-year-old is expected to add healthy competition to Nigeria’s goalkeeping department, especially with Amas Obasogie struggling for regular minutes at club level and Stanley Nwabali currently without a team following his departure from Chippa United.
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Justin Njinmah, Werder Bremen (Germany)
Versatile forward Justin Njinmah, who can operate both as a striker and from the wings, was strongly linked with a Super Eagles call-up last year, but the move did not materialise.
However, the situation appears different this time, as he is expected to complete his international clearance soon, which could pave the way for his first invitation.
Born in Hamburg to a German mother and Nigerian father, the Werder Bremen attacker is reportedly eager to represent Nigeria at senior level.
He has already held discussions about the national team with Super Eagles star Victor Boniface, who has spoken positively to him about playing for the country.
Njinmah has featured 23 times in all competitions for Werder Bremen this season, scoring four goals and showcasing his pace, direct running and versatility in the final third.
His potential addition could give Nigeria more attacking options as the team looks to build depth ahead of future tournaments.
Start ins Training! 💪
Agu, Stage und Njinmah trainieren währenddessen individuell. #Werder pic.twitter.com/pxOlovXNUb
— SV Werder Bremen (@werderbremen) November 14, 2024
Michael Atata, Ikorodu City (Nigeria)
For now, Michael Atata is reportedly the only home-based player firmly in the plans of Eric Chelle as the Super Eagles boss looks to reshuffle and strengthen his goalkeeping department.
Widely regarded as one of the standout performers in the Nigeria Premier Football League this season, the Ikorodu City shot-stopper has been instrumental in his side’s impressive title push.
His consistency, reflexes, and leadership at the back have made him one of the most reliable goalkeepers in the division.
Atata has recorded 14 clean sheets in 24 matches this campaign, a remarkable feat that has not gone unnoticed by the national team handlers.
With the Super Eagles seeking renewed competition between the posts, a maiden senior call-up could be just around the corner for the in-form youngster.
Emmanuel Fernandez, Rangers (Scotland)
Since joining Rangers in the summer of 2025, Emmanuel Fernandez has grown steadily into his role after a slow start, and he is now beginning to establish himself in the Scottish Premiership.
A composed centre-back blessed with calmness and technical quality, Fernandez is comfortable playing out from defence and possesses excellent reading of the game.
While Nigeria currently boasts depth in central defence, Fernandez could provide valuable competition and cover for established stars such as Calvin Bassey, who also rose to prominence at Rangers, while learning from experienced campaigners like Semi Ajayi.
The 24-year-old has featured 18 times for Rangers this season, scoring an impressive five goals, highlighting his ability to contribute offensively from defensive areas.
