Ilenikhena: Real reason Chelle snubbed Al-Ittihad star for Super Eagles vs Tanzania

Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has revealed that an injury was behind George Ilenikhena’s omission from Nigeria’s squad for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying double-header against Tanzania.

The Al-Ittihad striker was a notable absentee when Chelle named his 24-man squad for the two matches, despite scoring on his Super Eagles debut against Madagascar in September.

Ilenikhena found the net in Nigeria’s 2-1 victory over Madagascar in Uyo, raising hopes that he would keep his place for the November qualifiers.

His omission, however, raised questions among Nigerian fans, especially after his recent performances in Saudi Arabia.

Chelle has now explained that the youngster’s injury ruled him out, questioning whether those criticising his selection were aware of his fitness problems.

Speaking at his pre-match press conference, the Super Eagles coach also expressed surprise at the reaction to his squad announcement.

“I am surprised like you know I am not in the social media. Some people they send me lots of things. I am surprised because there are no questions about the group and the players,” Chelle said.

“Once again, if you have to tell me something you can go straight and if I want to give you an answer I give you.”

Chelle hits back at criticism over Ilenikhena’s omission

The coach returned to the subject of Ilenikhena’s absence, making it clear that the decision had nothing to do with the striker’s ability.

“For example, I saw lots of people speak about why George Ilenikhena is not here. Do you know that he has an injury? Before, some of you didn’t know. I think everybody needs to stay calm,” he added.

The 19-year-old scored in consecutive Saudi Pro League victories over Al-Ettifaq and Al-Diriyah in October, providing an assist in the 4-1 win over Al-Ettifaq.

He finished October with two goals and one assist in five appearances for Al-Ittihad. He has since made one substitute appearance in November, playing 23 minutes in a 4-1 defeat to Al-Ain in the AFC Champions League Elite.

Ilenikhena’s absence adds to Nigeria’s attacking problems, with Victor Osimhen also unavailable as he recovers from knee surgery.

Chelle will have to rely on Taiwo Awoniyi and Tolu Arokodare to lead the attack against Tanzania, starting with Friday’s encounter in Uyo before the return fixture in Dar es Salaam on November 17.

The coach has also accepted responsibility for the outcome of the qualifiers, insisting that he will not shy away from criticism if Nigeria fail to get the desired results.

“If we win this is the players and if we lose this is my responsibility and I totally agree with that,” he concluded.

A victory over Tanzania will keep Nigeria in second place in Group L but reduce Guinea-Bissau’s lead from four points to one, giving the Super Eagles a chance to close the gap in the qualification race.