Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle has left Maduka Okoye out of Nigeria’s squad for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Tanzania. The decision followed concerns over the goalkeeper’s late arrival at camp and a difficult spell with his Italian club, Udinese.
Okoye’s absence from the 24-man squad announced on November 7 surprised some Nigerian football fans. The 27-year-old had featured in previous national team selections and remained in contention for the first-choice goalkeeper position.
However, Chelle has now explained that his decision involved more than performances on the pitch.
Speaking to Foot Africa in Uyo on November 13, the coach said Okoye remained eligible for national team selection. He described the omission as a choice rather than a permanent exclusion.
Here are the major factors behind the decision.
1. His late arrival at Super Eagles camp
One major issue surrounding Okoye’s national team involvement was his late arrival during the September international window.
The goalkeeper reported to the Super Eagles camp in Uyo on the morning of Nigeria’s opening 2027 AFCON qualifier against Madagascar.
His arrival attracted criticism because the team had already begun preparations for the match.
The delay followed his involvement in Udinese’s third-kit presentation during Milan Fashion Week. He had also attended a public event involving American rapper Cardi B.
Chelle later explained that he had granted Okoye permission to attend the club engagement. However, he expressed displeasure over the goalkeeper’s late arrival.
The incident renewed questions about his commitment to international duty.
2. Chelle considers conduct outside the pitch
Chelle’s latest explanation suggests that technical ability alone does not determine who gets a place in his squad.
Speaking to Foot Africa, the coach said he considers what players contribute both on and off the pitch.
He also explained that players must fit into the team’s wider group and maintain a good position within the squad.
His comments did not establish that Okoye had received a formal disciplinary sanction. However, they showed that the coach considers team relationships and conduct when making selection decisions.
Chelle also stressed that the national team remains open to Okoye and other players who miss a particular selection.
3. Udinese’s difficult run has added pressure
Okoye’s club form has also become a talking point.
The goalkeeper has faced a difficult period with Udinese in the Italian league. The club suffered an 8th defeat in nine league matches, including a 5-2 loss to Roma on October 31.
He was also in goal when Udinese lost 2-1 to Venezia on November 6.
Although those results do not establish that Okoye alone is responsible for the team’s struggles, they have added pressure as he competes for Nigeria’s goalkeeping position.
4. Chelle recalled Francis Uzoho instead
With Okoye missing from the squad, Chelle selected Stanley Nwabali, Francis Uzoho and Arthur Okonkwo for the Tanzania double-header.
Uzoho’s return is particularly notable. The goalkeeper had not featured in recent selections but has now regained a place among Nigeria’s options.
Nwabali also remains a major contender for the starting position, having established himself as an important figure in the national team.
The competition means Okoye must work his way back into the squad rather than rely on his previous standing.
5. Is Okoye permanently out of the Super Eagles?
No. Chelle has specifically dismissed the suggestion that the national team door is closed to the Udinese goalkeeper.
The coach said he made his selection like he did with other players and would continue assessing their contributions both on and off the pitch.
Okoye’s omission therefore applies to the current fixtures against Tanzania. It does not amount to a confirmed permanent ban.
Nigeria will host Tanzania in Uyo on Friday, November 13, before travelling for the return fixture on November 17.
For Okoye, the next step is to regain consistency at club level and convince Chelle that he deserves another opportunity.
His international future remains open, but his place in the Super Eagles is no longer guaranteed.