Chelle to scout Europe, NPFL for new Super Eagles talents ahead of Unity Cup

ABUJA — Super Eagles head coach, Eric Chelle, has revealed plans to scout for new players across Europe and within the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) as part of preparations for the 2026 Unity Cup.

 

The tournament is scheduled to hold in May at The Valley, home of English club Charlton Athletic, with Nigeria set to face Zimbabwe in their opening fixture on May 26.

 

Chelle said the competition presents an opportunity to assess fresh talents, especially as some regular members of the national team may be rested following a demanding season.

 

“The Unity Cup offers an opportunity to evaluate new players. I will search Europe and invite new talents of Nigerian descent, along with those who were previously called up but did not get the opportunity to play,” he said.

 

He added that standout performers from the domestic league would also be considered, noting that he would closely monitor NPFL matches in the coming weeks.

 

“Prominent players from the Nigeria Premier Football League will also be taken into account, as I will be observing several domestic league matches from now until the season concludes,” Chelle stated.

 

The coach also indicated that players who have previously received call-ups but are yet to earn caps, or have had limited playing time, could be given another opportunity to prove themselves.

 

Nigeria could face either Jamaica or India in the final if they progress beyond their opening game.

 

Chelle had handed debuts to several players in the previous edition of the Unity Cup, including Benjamin Fredrick, Igoh Ogbu, Felix Agu, and Christantus Uche, as part of efforts to broaden the national team pool.