Next Super Eagles star to watch: Why Isaac James could be one for the future

Isaac James is set to earn a first Super Eagles invitation and the youngster has the chance to show he is ready to do more than fill a gap in Nigeria’s squad for the September 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers, Afrik-Foot reports.

The 21-year-old Alverca left-back has been on Eric Chelle’s radar since last season, and his reported call-up could be the first step towards a longer role with the national team.

James arrives at a time when Nigeria suddenly needs more depth at left-back. Zaidu Sanusi suffered a right adductor injury during Porto’s 3-0 win over Académico de Viseu on August 29 and was forced off after 17 minutes. Medical tests confirmed an injury expected to keep the 29-year-old out for about two months.

That has opened a door for James, but it does not mean Chelle is ready to hand him the starting job. Bruno Onyemaechi is still expected to start the qualifiers against Madagascar in Uyo on September 23 and Guinea-Bissau four days later. Ola Aina and Bright Osayi-Samuel also offer options on the left despite being more familiar with the right side.

James’ value, therefore, could be greater than what he offers in these two matches. Nigeria need younger defenders who can grow into international roles, and James already has experience in Portugal’s top flight. His first call-up gives Chelle a chance to assess whether he can become part of that next generation.

Super Eagles: James has already built a case in Portugal

James joined Alverca from French club Lorient in July 2025 after developing through Lorient’s system. His first full season in Portugal gave him a proper test against Primeira Liga opposition. He played 19 league matches, starting 15, and supplied two assists as Alverca finished 11th.

His numbers this season also explain why Chelle’s interest has continued. James started Alverca’s first four league matches of the 2026-27 campaign, playing 344 minutes and providing two assists.

The strongest part of his profile is his versatility. James is naturally left-footed and plays at left-back, but he can also operate on the left side of midfield and at right-back. That gives Chelle another flexible defensive option in a squad where Aina and Osayi-Samuel can also switch roles.

James also had an encouraging 2025-26 campaign against some of Portugal’s strongest clubs. His league appearances included matches against Porto and Sporting CP, giving him experience of the level and pressure that comes with playing in the Primeira Liga.

It is believed that Chelle sent scouts to watch James three times this season and was impressed by their reports. The coach had already approved the idea of calling him up in June, but wanted to see how the young defender developed before making the move.

Super Eagles: Onyemaechi has the advantage, but James has time

The immediate picture is clear. Onyemaechi is ahead of James. The Olympiakos defender has already been trusted by Chelle and is expected to keep the left-back position for the September qualifiers. James is entering his first senior international camp and has yet to play a competitive match for Nigeria.

But James is not being brought into the squad simply because Sanusi is injured. Chelle had identified the left-back position as an area that needed more options before Sanusi’s setback. James’ development at Alverca had already put him in that conversation.

If James performs well in training, adapts quickly to international football and continues to play regularly for Alverca, this invitation can become the start of a genuine Super Eagles career rather than a short-term response to an injury.

At 21, he has time on his side. Sanusi’s return may close the immediate gap, while Onyemaechi has the advantage of experience and Chelle’s trust. James’ task is simply to use this first opportunity to prove that Nigeria may have found another long-term answer at left-back.