Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman are among the leading names ruled out as Nigeria’s Super Eagles prepare for international friendlies against Poland and Portugal, with six established players unavailable due to a mix of transfer-related developments, paperwork problems and fitness issues.
Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has confirmed that the group will miss the upcoming matches, citing ongoing negotiations surrounding player moves, administrative complications, and concerns about readiness for the fixtures.
The latest update comes after Nigeria’s 3-0 win over Jamaica on Saturday night at The Valley, a result that delivered the Super Eagles their fourth Unity Cup title.
Osimhen, the team’s main attacking figure, tops the list of absentees. The striker is currently involved in off-season transfer discussions after enjoying a title-winning campaign with Turkish champions Galatasaray.
“This is the off-season period, when many things unfold away from the pitch, and we have to honour certain decisions that are not controlled by us,” Chelle said.
Lookman, who plays for Atletico Madrid, will also be absent from the friendlies due to personal circumstances.
Millwall winger Femi Azeez—who provided the assist for Terem Moffi’s goal in the Unity Cup final—has likewise been blocked from traveling by his club. Azeez is currently handling negotiations related to his next move at club level.
Chelle also outlined additional setbacks affecting squad availability. Midfielders Alhassan Yusuf and Tijani Samson are unavailable after failing to obtain entry visas for the match locations, while Inter Milan loanee Ebenezer Akinsanmiro has been ruled out because of illness.
Even with a significant slice of regular starters unavailable, Chelle indicated the upcoming fixtures will be used to evaluate the squad’s depth and options.
“These next matches are friendlies, and I will treat each game with the seriousness it deserves, using the players who are available,” Chelle added.
The Poland and Portugal clashes are set to act as preparation opportunities for Nigeria ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification campaign.
