Chelle Opens Door to Foreign-Born Stars
Last update: February 17, 2026
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Chelle secures Super Eagles commitments from Felix Agu, Ryan Alebiosu and Arthur Okonkwo...
Head coach Eric Chelle has begun reshaping the Nigeria national football team with a firm stance that Nigeria will continue to welcome players born abroad who are ready to commit to the green and white.
The Malian tactician is working behind the scenes to strengthen his squad ahead of the next international window, as several dual-nationality footballers signal their intention to represent Nigeria.
His recruitment efforts have already yielded positive results, with defenders Felix Agu and Ryan Alebiosu, as well as Arthur Okonkwo of Wrexham A.F.C., committing their international futures to the Super Eagles.
However, the recruitment drive is far from complete.
Reports indicate that up to five more eligible players are currently in discussions with the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), as Chelle seeks to deepen competition across key positions.
The latest player linked with a switch is Emmanuel Fernandez, a defender at Rangers F.C..
The 24-year-old centre-back, born in London to Nigerian parents, is said to have pledged his allegiance to Nigeria following an impressive spell in Scotland.
CBI News reports that Fernandez has been one of Rangers’ standout performers this season, netting four goals in 17 league appearances and earning the club’s Player of the Month award for January.
His commanding displays reportedly drew interest from German giants Borussia Dortmund during the January transfer window.
Addressing the growing number of foreign-born players eager to join the squad, Chelle stressed that selection will be strictly performance-based.
“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.”
Nigeria’s squad at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, where the Super Eagles finished third, already reflected a healthy blend of homegrown and foreign-raised talent.
Players such as Semi Ajayi, Calvin Bassey, Alex Iwobi, Ademola Lookman, Alebiosu and Fisayo Dele-Bashiru featured prominently during the tournament.
