2026 WCQs: Akwa United block invitation of 17yo dribbling wizard Suleiman as replacement for Chukwueze

Allnigeriasoccer.com can exclusively report that Akwa United blocked the potential invitation of dribbling wizard Sani Suleiman to the Super Eagles squad for the upcoming 2026 World Cup qualifying matches against South Africa's Bafana Bafana and Benin's Cheetahs.

Officials of the Super Eagles had been in touch with the powers that be at Akwa United regarding the release of the 17-year-od Suleiman, who was earmarked as a replacement for AC Milan winger Samuel Chukwueze.

Chukwueze had been rated as doubtful for the World Cup qualifiers due to a hamstring injury that saw him miss the last two matches played by AC Milan in the Serie A in the recently concluded season.

Akwa United frowned at the invitation of Suleiman because they are currently involved in a relegation dogfight five matches to the end of the season.

Suleiman would have missed NPFL games against Heartland on Monday, June 3 and the visit to Sunshine Stars if Akwa United had given him the green light to link up with the national team.

The exciting winger has been the standout player in what has been a dismal season for Akwa United and was named the best player in the Nigeria Premier Football League for the month of March.

Since transferring to the Promise Keepers in the winter transfer market, Suleiman has been involved in an impressive 15 goals (10 goals, 5 assists) in fifteen appearances.

Chukwueze later declared himself fit for the World Cup qualifiers, easing the pressure on coach Finidi George to draft in a replacement.

The Super Eagles coach will continue monitoring the performances of Suleiman, with a view to a future call-up to the national team.

Ifeanyi Emmanuel

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