National Teams
Unity Cup: Eric Chelle justifies squad rotation, emphasizes talent development

By Monsurah Olatunji
Nigeria’s head coach Eric Chelle has offered a clear explanation for his squad selection ahead of the 2025 Unity Cup Tournament in London, citing player development and tactical experimentation as top priorities.
Chelle, who took charge of the Super Eagles earlier this year, has opted to leave out several high-profile players, including Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman, from the 25-man roster.
Instead, he has blended experienced internationals like Moses Simon, Wilfred Ndidi, Stanley Nwabali, and Ahmed Musa with a promising group of nine home-based players.
Speaking to Nigeria Football Federation Communications (NFF Comms), Chelle outlined the strategic intent behind his decisions.
“We’re looking forward to taking part in the Unity Cup as it will give us the chance to try out a few new players in different roles. It will help us strengthen our squad before the matches in September and October,” he said.
Ahmed Musa, Nigeria’s most-capped player, is expected to captain the side, lending leadership and international experience to a squad designed for experimentation and long-term depth building.
The Unity Cup, hosted at the Gtech Community Stadium in Brentford, West London, features a competitive lineup including Nigeria, Ghana, Jamaica, and Trinidad & Tobago.
The tournament kicks off on Tuesday, May 27, with Trinidad & Tobago taking on Jamaica in the first semi-final. Nigeria will reignite their storied West African rivalry with Ghana the following day, Wednesday, May 28.
The third-place match and the final are both scheduled for Saturday, May 31, as the four nations battle for the inaugural Unity Cup crown.