Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle visits Iwobi, Ndidi, Simon ahead of crucial World Cup qualifiers

Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has begun a European tour to meet with key players, including Alex Iwobi, Wilfred Ndidi, and Moses Simon, as he prepares for his first game in charge. 

The visit comes ahead of Nigeria's crucial 2026 Fifa World Cup qualifiers against Rwanda and Zimbabwe.

Chelle, who was appointed by the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) last month, is keen to strengthen his relationship with the squad and ensure that his tactical plans are well communicated before the upcoming fixtures. 

His trip took him to France, where he met with Nantes winger Moses Simon, before traveling to England to engage with Fulham's Iwobi and Leicester City's Ndidi.

The Malian tactician is expected to discuss his vision for the team, assess the players' fitness, and outline his expectations for the crucial qualifiers. 

Nigeria currently sits fifth in Group C of the African qualifiers, making the upcoming matches vital to their hopes of securing a place at the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

Beyond Iwobi, Ndidi, and Simon, Chelle is also expected to meet with other key Super Eagles stars across Europe. 

Chelle's engagement with the squad comes at a critical time, as Nigeria struggles to regain momentum following a disappointing start to the qualifiers. 

The Super Eagles opened their campaign with a 1-1 draw against Lesotho in Uyo, followed by another 1-1 draw against Zimbabwe. 

With only the group winners guaranteed a place in the World Cup, Nigeria must secure maximum points in the upcoming matches to avoid missing out on the global showpiece for the second consecutive edition.

After his European tour, Chelle will return to Nigeria to finalize preparations with the home-based Super Eagles before announcing his squad for the qualifiers. 

The NFF has expressed confidence in his approach, believing that his proactive engagement with the team will help Nigeria get back on track in their World Cup qualification campaign.

Nigeria will face Rwanda in Kigali before hosting Zimbabwe in Uyo in the next round of qualifiers, where Chelle will be under pressure to deliver positive results.

Wale Adejumo

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