Every word Chelle said on Lookman's future, Osimhen's suitors, missing Super Eagles players, Russia

Ahead of Nigeria’s friendly match against the Russian national team, Nigerian head coach Eric Chelle spoke candidly about the absence of some of his key players, the ongoing transfer situations for Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman, and his approach to the upcoming game.

"Thank you for the warm welcome. For me personally, this is my first visit to Russia, and I am very proud of the opportunity that has been given to me," Chelle said at the pre-match press conference. 

Regarding the squad selection, Chelle explained why Osimhen and Lookman were not part of the team traveling to Russia.

"Lookman and Osimhen weren't in the team for the match with Russia because they had a very long season and they need a rest.

"Moreover, they have important decisions to make in this transfer window – which clubs to continue playing for.

"It is important for me that the players, while in the national team, are 100% focused on its tasks and don't think about anything else."

He also clarified the reasons for other absences: "Nathan Tella is not here because of passport and visa problems. 
"Samuel Chukwueze needs to solve issues with the family and Wilfred Ndidi sustained a groin injury. That's why these players are not here too."

On the topic of Osimhen, who is the talisman of the Nigerian national team, Chelle confirmed the striker’s world-class status and ongoing interest from several clubs.

"Victor Osimhen is one of the best strikers in the world. I have not discussed his transfer issues with him, but I know that many clubs around the world, including England, are interested in him.

"I also know about the interest from Saudi Arabia. He will have to make a choice and continue his journey."

However, Chelle’s focus remains on Osimhen’s performance and fitness.

"For me, as the coach of the Nigerian national team, the main thing is that he is in good shape and continues to score. For my part, I will do everything to help him with this."

Looking ahead to the friendly against Russia, Chelle highlighted the quality of the opposition and his ambitions for the match.

"We know that the Russian national team is a very strong team. It has many high-class players, they demonstrate an intense, aggressive and technically equipped game.

"Now I am thinking about how to build a plan for the upcoming match."

Despite the friendly nature of the game, Chelle stressed his competitive mindset.

"In any case, for me as a coach it is important to strive for victory in every match, regardless of its status.

"Tomorrow's game is a friendly, but we have serious goals: firstly, we want to win, secondly, to prepare for the next tournaments and qualifying matches."

Nigeria will take on Russia at the Luzhniki Stadium in Moscow on Friday, June 6, as part of their build-up to the crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers scheduled for September.

Wale Adejumo

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