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Nigeria manager Eric Chelle has named his trustworthy players in the Super Eagles national team, leaving out Alex Iwobi and Ademola Lookman. The Malian led his team to the playoff phase of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, defeating Benin Republic 4-0 on the final day of the qualifiers. Following the preparation for the playoffs, Chelle has spoken about speculation regarding the team's captaincy, affirming that William Troost-Ekong will continue to lead the Super Eagles into the upcoming 2026 World Cup qualifiers. Despite Troost-Ekong's status as the official captain, his starting position has been uncertain recently. This led to Wilfred Ndidi wearing the armband in four of Nigeria's last ten World Cup qualifying matches. Chelle picks his inner circle Chelle stressed his confidence in Troost-Ekong's leadership while also revealing a core group of senior players he relies on for counsel. "I never talked about the captain. For me, my captain is William Troost-Ekong. I prefer to say this first," Chelle stated in an interview with Eagle7 103.7 Sports FM."I have a little circle, we can say four or five players, that I turn to when I need to ask something." Speaking further about the team, Chelle identified this inner circle as a key part of his decision-making process. "When I want something, the first people I ask are William, Moses, Wilfred and Victor Osimhen," he explained. "If I’m not happy with the group, I talk to these guys. If I want to ask the players questions, I ask them first before I make my decision." "The reality is, first, William Troost-Ekong is my captain," he reiterated. "After that, we will see what happens before the AFCON, or maybe not."
