Eric Chelle’s final 23-man Super Eagles squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Rwanda and Zimbabwe features several new faces, but some high-profile names were left out, Footynaija.com reports.
Despite their market value and reputation, these players did not make the cut for different reasons.
Here are the five most valuable Nigerian players who missed out, ranked from the least to the highest in market value.
5. Gift Orban (€10 million)
Orban has been in impressive form since his transfer to TSG Hoffenheim in early 2025, scoring four goals in nine Bundesliga appearances. Given his recent performances, his omission from the squad could be due to tactical preferences or the availability of other in-form forwards.
4. Paul Onuachu (€11 million)
Onuachu has struggled to find form since his move to Southampton, failing to replicate his prolific goal-scoring record from his time at Genk. He has found the back of the net just two times and provided one assist in 21 appearances this season.
His limited impact this season may have led Chelle to explore other attacking options. In his place, the coach has called up Tolu Arokodare from KRC Genk, who has been stepping up his game in the Belgian league.
3. George Ilenikhena (€15 million)
At just 18, Ilenikhena has been impressive for Monaco, even making history in the Champions League as the youngest-ever Champions League goalscorer for the French side. In this season, he has scored 6 goals and provided 2 assists in 28 appearances.
However, his youth and inexperience at the international level may have influenced Chelle’s decision to exclude him. Instead, the coach has opted for more seasoned forwards like Victor Osimhen and Sadiq Umar, who bring experience to the squad.
2. Terem Mofi (€18 million)
Mofi has established himself as a reliable goal-scorer for Nice in the French Ligue 1, scoring an impressive 11 goals and two assists in 32 appearances.
However, he suffered an ACL injury in July 2024, returned to training in February 2025, but hasn’t played since. Nice expects him back by March 26. For obvious reasons, Eric Chelle has decided to go for other options who have equally been in excellent forms for their respective clubs.
1. Taiwo Awoniyi (€22 million)
Awoniyi has endured a challenging season with Nottingham Forest, managing just one goal in 21 Premier League appearances. A concussion and broken nose sustained in February further disrupted his season.
These factors likely influenced Chelle’s decision to exclude him, opting instead for forwards who are currently in better form and fitness.
Eric Chelle’s first squad selection reflects his vision for the Super Eagles, but the absence of these five players shows the level of competition for places.