Reports circulating that Chelsea midfielders Carney Chukwuemeka and Lesley Ugochukwu have applied to represent Nigeria at the international level have been refuted by a top official within the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF).
According to Nigeria outlet Soccernet.ng discussions may have taken place regarding the players’ potential inclusion in the Super Eagles but no formal application for a nationality switch has been submitted.
Chukwuemeka and Ugochukwu, both currently playing in the English Premier League, are eligible to represent both their birth countries (England and France respectively) and Nigeria through their heritage.
Recent speculation suggested that the pair had already initiated the process of changing their international allegiance and were even included in a provisional 31-man squad for Nigeria’s upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Rwanda and Zimbabwe.
However, according to BBC journalist Oluwashina Okeleji, a high-ranking NFF source has clarified the situation.
The official emphasized that only the federation itself can formally apply for a player’s switch, dismissing the claims that Chukwuemeka and Ugochukwu had taken the first steps.
“Only a federation can apply on behalf of players if they intend to switch. The news circulating now is fake,” the official stated.
While the possibility of the Chelsea duo representing Nigeria in the future remains open, their participation in the crucial World Cup qualifiers in March is now highly unlikely.
This news comes as the Super Eagles prepare for these pivotal matches under their newly appointed head coach, Eric Chelle, formerly of Mali.
Nigeria faces a must-win situation in their upcoming fixtures against Rwanda and Zimbabwe.
The team’s midfield has been a subject of discussion, with many Nigerian football enthusiasts debating whether the potential addition of Chukwuemeka and Ugochukwu could provide the necessary boost.
Chukwuemeka, an attacking midfielder, has shown glimpses of his talent in the Premier League, while Ugochukwu, a defensive midfielder, offers stability and could be a valuable asset, particularly given concerns about Wilfred Ndidi’s fitness.
