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    Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has confirmed that several key players, including Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman, will be unavailable for Nigeria’s upcoming international friendlies against Poland and Portugal.

    The announcement comes shortly after Nigeria retained the Unity Cup title with a convincing 3-0 victory over Jamaica in London.

    Chelle disclosed that a combination of personal commitments, club requests and administrative issues will prevent some members of his squad from participating in the June fixtures.

    Osimhen, Lookman unavailable for selection

    Osimhen is set to miss both matches after being granted permission to focus on matters related to his club future amid ongoing transfer speculation.

    Chelle confirms Osimhen, Lookman to miss European friendlies
    Osimhen and Lookman to miss Super Eagles friendlies – Getty image

    The striker has been linked with a number of clubs following another productive season and will remain away from the national team camp as discussions continue.

    Lookman has also been excused from international duty after a demanding campaign in European football.

    The winger’s club, Atletico Madrid, requested that he be allowed time to rest and recover ahead of the new season after an intensive schedule across domestic and continental competitions.

    Chukwueze, midfield duo also ruled out

    Nigeria will also be without experienced winger Samuel Chukwueze, who has been excused following the recent funeral of his mother.

    In midfield, Alhassan Yusuf and Samson Tijani will miss the trip because of visa-related complications.

    The duo were eligible to feature during the Unity Cup in England but were unable to secure the documentation required for travel to Poland and Portugal.

    Yusuf’s absence is a significant blow after the New England Revolution midfielder starred in the final against Jamaica, scoring twice in Nigeria’s title-clinching victory.

    Azeez handed opportunity

    To bolster his attacking options, Chelle has retained the services of Femi Azeez, who impressed during the Unity Cup campaign.

    The Millwall forward announced himself with two goals in Nigeria’s semi-final win over Zimbabwe and is expected to play a more prominent role during the European tour.

    With several regulars unavailable, Chelle is likely to lean on senior figures such as Moses Simon, Paul Onuachu and Akor Adams as Nigeria prepare for two challenging encounters.

    The Super Eagles will face Poland in Warsaw on June 3 before taking on Portugal in Leiria on June 10 as preparations continue for future international assignments, including the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.

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