Olaleye Idowu
Chelle, this week, released his first provisional squad since he was appointed as the new head of the Super Eagles.
The 47-year-old has been watching players in the domestic and foreign leagues since he replaced Augustine Eguavoen.
The 23-man list he unveiled for the 2026 World Cup qualifiers against Rwanda and Zimbabwe reflected what was on his mind.
Two experienced players, Ahmed Musa and Maduka Okoye, were dropped.
Chelle named two home-based players in his squad, goalkeeper Kayode Bankole and midfielder, Papa Daniel.
There was also a maiden invitation for KRC Genk forward, Tolu Arokodare, while Joe Aribo also made the list.
“I thought it was underwhelming,” Solace Chukwu, Site coordinator, AfrikFoot NG, tells Urban Express News Online
“While the Super Eagles’ precarious situation means experimentation was always likely to be kept to a minimum, there was nothing to the squad that suggested a new coach had drawn it up.
“Eguavoen, were he still in charge, probably would have arrived at something similar,” he added.
Does Chelle’s final list for the two qualifiers give an idea of what his tactical idea could be?
Solace adds: “All that seems likely from it, is that he will want his midfield to be good in possession.
“That probably explains why a mainstay like Frank Onyeka has been dropped.
“Besides that, the shape itself could be anything, as could the strategy.”
Whatever the players and tactical system preferred, what is clear is that Nigeria need to take three points from Rwanda in Kigali.
The Super Eagles have made a winless start in Group C, drawing three of their first four games.
The three-time African champions are condemned to win. Or else their dreams of qualifying for next year’s tournament are effectively dead.
“I think it will be difficult.
“Nigeria’s last visit there saw them draw, and while Rwanda have lost their erstwhile coach, they will be emboldened by their recent results against Nigeria.
“Add to that the Super Eagles are breaking in a new trainer, and the task becomes even more challenging,” Solace admits.
