NFF President stresses final squad selection was solely coach Eric Chelle’s decision.

Ibrahim Gusau

Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) President Ibrahim Gusau has dismissed claims that the NFF influenced Eric Chelle’s final Super Eagles squad for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.

Speaking to Segun Odegbami on Eagle 102.5 FM, Gusau warned against spreading rumors on social media, saying, “I will never tell a coach to pick this player or that player. I have never stayed in one hotel with the national team since I became the President. I don’t want to be a distraction.”

The squad features 10 new faces, including defenders Ryan Alebiosu and Igoh Ogbu, midfielders Ebenezer Akinsanmiro, Usman Muhammed, and Tochukwu Nnadi, as well as forward Salim Fago Lawal. Notable absentees include Ola Aina, William Troost-Ekong, and Benjamin Fredrick.

Key returning players include Calvin Bassey, Semi Ajayi, Alex Iwobi, Wilfred Ndidi, Frank Onyeka, Ademola Lookman, Samuel Chukwueze, Moses Simon, and Victor Osimhen.

The Eagles will hold a training camp in Egypt and face a friendly against the Pharaohs on December 16 as part of their AFCON preparations.