Chelle Seeks Foreign Based Players to Bolster Nigerian Team.

Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle is looking for foreign-born players to help strengthen Nigeria’s squad, as there is growing interest from dual-nationality stars eligible to represent the country.

The Malian coach has already secured commitments from defenders Felix Agu and Ryan Alebiosu, as well as Wrexham goalkeeper Arthur Okonkwo, and is reportedly in talks with five more eligible players.

According to recent reports, Rangers defender Emmanuel Fernandez is the latest foreign-born player to commit to the Super Eagles.

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“We have a couple of players who were born abroad, who want to play for the team and we are looking at how they will fit in. We can’t bring all of them into the team,” Chelle said in quotes shared by Super Eagles Supporters Club (@official_esclub on X). “We will however pick those that we know can bring competition to the team, improve the team and also fit our game project.”

A revelation in the Scottish League this season, Fernandez, 24, was born in London to Nigerian parents. The center-back won Rangers’ Player of the Month award for January after scoring four goals in 17 games.

According to reports, he was on the verge of joining Borussia Dortmund of the German Bundesliga during the January transfer window. Chelle is anticipated to include him in her plans for the March international window.

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Several players with dual nationalities were part of the Super Eagles team at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, where Nigeria placed third. These players included Semi Ajayi, Calvin Bassey, Alex Iwobi, Ademola Lookman, Ryan Alebiosu, and Fisayo Dele-Bashiru.

By combining local expertise with international talent while preserving tactical coherence, Chelle’s strategy ushers in a new era for the Super Eagles.