A shocking development in the Nigerian national men’s team preparations for the upcoming 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers has been reported uncovered.
Despite the absence of a head coach, a provisional squad is being compiled, sparking concerns about administrative interference in team’s selection.
According to sources, a top team official has been contacting players to join the provisional squad, a move that has raised eyebrows given the lack of a coach. This is not an isolated incident, as a similar approach was taken before Finidi George’s appointment in May, SCORENigeria reports.
The Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) is yet to announce a new coach for the Super Eagles, with the 2025 AFCON qualifiers just around the corner. The team’s opening Group D qualifier against Benin in Uyo is scheduled for September 2, followed by a trip to Rwanda on September 10.
Notably, both Benin and Rwanda are also in Nigeria’s 2026 World Cup qualifying group.
The unorthodox approach to squad selection has fueled speculation about direct administrative interference, which could compromise the team’s performance in the qualifiers.
The NFF’s delay in appointing a coach has added to the uncertainty surrounding the team’s preparations.
As the Super Eagles prepare to face crucial matches in the AFCON and World Cup qualifiers, the absence of a coach and the unconventional squad selection process have raised concerns among fans and football enthusiasts. The NFF must address these issues promptly to ensure the team’s success in the upcoming qualifiers.
