Super Eagles head coach, Eric Chelle, has confirmed that star forwards Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman will miss Nigeria’s upcoming international friendly matches against Poland and Portugal.
Speaking ahead of the fixtures, Chelle explained that Osimhen was excused from the squad due to uncertainties surrounding his club future and the need to ensure he remains fully fit.
“Victor Osimhen may have to change clubs, so I prefer that he stays where he is because if you play and you are not at 100 per cent, it is not good,” the coach said.
Osimhen, who currently plays for Galatasaray, has been linked with several European clubs in recent months amid ongoing transfer speculation.
Nigeria will also be without Lookman, who has been granted time off after what Chelle described as a physically demanding season.
“Lookman is very tired, and Atalanta has asked us to release him,” he said.
The absence of the two attackers represents a significant setback for the Super Eagles, with both players playing key roles for the national team in recent years.
Lookman recently enjoyed another impressive campaign in Europe, helping his club reach the semi-finals of the UEFA Champions League.
Chelle also disclosed that the team has faced administrative challenges ahead of the trip, including visa-related issues affecting some players.
Despite the setbacks, the coach insisted that the team remains determined to compete strongly against both opponents.
“We will go there to fight. If we win, we win. If we lose, we lose. But if we lose, they will have to work for it,” he stated.
The Super Eagles coach described Poland as a strong World Cup-bound side and Portugal as one of the best national teams in world football.
“Poland is a good team. They are going to the World Cup. Portugal may be the best team in the world. So this is a great challenge for us,” Chelle said.
The friendlies will provide Nigeria with an opportunity to test itself against top European opposition as the coach continues rebuilding the squad following the country’s failure to qualify for the FIFA World Cup.
“I am sad that we did not go to the World Cup, but maybe this challenge will be something very good for me and for the team,” he added.
