Reports that Chelsea duo Carney Chukwuemeka and Lesley Ugochukwu have submitted papers to switch their international allegiance from England and France to Nigeria have been dismissed, Soccernet.ng understands.

Both players who are currently plying their trade in English Premier League are eligible to play for both England and Nigeria.

Earlier reports suggested that the two midfielders had applied for a nationality switch and were included in the Super Eagles’ 31-man provisional squad for the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Rwanda and Zimbabwe.

JUST IN: Carney Chukwuemeka and Lesley Ugochukwu of Chelsea have applied to switch nationality to Nigeria pic.twitter.com/SSvrytW1cZ

— Nigeria Stories (@NigeriaStories) February 7, 2025

No Official Application Yet

According to BBC journalist Oluwashina Okeleji, a top NFF official clarified that only the federation can apply for a player’s switch, refuting the claims that Chukwuemeka and Ugochukwu had initiated the process.

“Only a federation can apply on behalf of players if they intend to switch. The news circulating now is fake,” the official stated.

Carney Chukwuemeka of Chelsea during the UEFA Europa Conference League match at the Olympic Stadium of Athens. Photo by IMAGO

While there may have been discussions about the players’ potential inclusion in Nigeria’s squad, there is no official confirmation that they have begun the process to change their international allegiance.

Eric Chelle’s Appointment and Super Eagles’ Must-Win Fixtures

Meanwhile, Mali’s former head coach, Eric Chelle, has been appointed as the new head coach of the Super Eagles, taking charge ahead of Nigeria’s crucial World Cup qualifiers in March.

The three-time African champions are in dire need of victories against Rwanda and Zimbabwe to boost their chances of securing a spot in the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Eric Chelle (Photo credit: Imago)

With Nigeria’s midfield needing reinforcements, discussions have emerged in the Nigerian football community about whether Chukwuemeka and Ugochukwu—should they switch allegiance—would be valuable additions to Chelle’s squad.

Should Chelle Consider Chukwuemeka and Ugochukwu?

Both players offer exciting prospects for Nigeria. Chukwuemeka is an attacking midfielder, and has showcased his potential in the Premier League, while Ugochukwu, a defensive midfielder, provides stability in the middle of the park and is a perfect option for Wilfred Ndidi.

Wilfred Ndidi (Photo credit: Imago)

Their inclusion could strengthen the Super Eagles’ midfield options, especially when the team is sweating over Wilfred Ndidi’s full fitness before March.

However, with no official nationality switch yet, it remains uncertain whether they will be available for selection anytime soon.

For now, Chelle may have to focus on players already committed to Nigeria as he prepares for the critical March fixtures.