Chelle Won’t Rush Replacements as Ajayi and Onyemaechi Head Home

Two defenders out, no replacements coming in. That’s Eric Chelle’s call ahead of Nigeria’s friendly against Jordan in Antalya on Tuesday — and he’s not budging on it.

Semi Ajayi left camp after the Iran game for personal reasons. Bruno Onyemaechi followed — his child was born. Both departures were granted, both were understandable. But Chelle looked at what remained and decided the squad was fine as it is.

It’s a statement of confidence, really. Emmanuel Fernandez made his debut against Iran and showed enough. The defensive options still in Antalya give Chelle what he needs. “The coach trusts the players here. No need to bring anyone in at this late stage,” a team source told AllNigeriaSoccer. Nigeria are unbeaten in six straight and head into the Jordan game in good shape — this isn’t a squad in crisis, it’s a squad being managed smartly ahead of the 2027 AFCON qualifiers.