Chelle Sends Clear Message To Okoye After Leaving Goalkeeper Out Of AFCON Squad

Super Eagles head coach, Éric Chelle, has explained his decision to leave goalkeeper Maduka Okoye out of Nigeria’s squad for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifying double-header against Tanzania, insisting that the player remains eligible for future selection.

Okoye, who plays for Italian club Udinese, was among the notable absentees from the squad announced for the two encounters against the Taifa Stars, raising questions about the reasons behind his exclusion.

Speaking during a pre-match press conference ahead of Friday’s Matchday Three fixture at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo, Chelle said his decision followed an assessment of the goalkeeper’s performances and conduct within the national team setup.

According to information made available to Bush Radio Academy, the Franco-Malian tactician stressed that Okoye had not been permanently dropped from the Super Eagles, describing the omission as a selection decision based on what he considered best for the team.

Chelle explained that a player’s contribution to the national team goes beyond performances during matches, noting that attitude, behaviour and relationships within the squad also influence selection decisions.

He maintained that the national team remains open to Okoye and other players who could earn future invitations through their performances and overall contributions.

The Super Eagles coach further disclosed that his tactical considerations played an important role in determining the final squad, adding that he selected the players he believed were best suited to the team’s current needs.

Chelle’s comments appear to clarify that Okoye’s absence from the Tanzania fixtures does not signal the end of his international career, leaving the goalkeeper with an opportunity to return to the national team in future selections.