‘Unfair’ – Super Eagles boss Chelle snubs defender wanted by Leeds United, Marseille

Super Eagles head coach Éric Chelle left out one of the country’s most talked-about young defenders, Chibuike Nwaiwu, from his squad for the upcoming friendlies against Jordan and Iran, Afrik-Foot reports.

Nigeria’s Super Eagles will face Iran on March 27 before taking on Jordan on March 31, with both matches scheduled to be played in Antalya, Turkey.

Nwaiwu, who joined Trabzonspor in January, has made a bright start to life in Turkey and was widely expected to earn his first senior international call-up for the games.

Instead, Chelle opted for his trusted defensive stalwarts Calvin Bassey, Semi Ajayi, Igoh Ogbu and Rangers new boy Emmanuel Fernandez. Chelle’s decision to call up Slavia Prague’s Ogbu instead of Nwaiwu has been described in the Turkish media as ‘unfair’ given the youngster’s recent form. Ogbu was a member of the Super Eagles’ bronze medal-winning team at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco earlier this year.

Nwaiwu, though, has enjoyed a rapid rise over the past two years. After beginning his career in Nigeria with Heartland and Enyimba, he moved to Austria to join Wolfsberger AC, where he quickly developed into one of the league’s most promising defenders. His performances there attracted interest from top European clubs, including Leeds United, Olympique de Marseille, Paris Saint-Germain and Bayer Leverkusen, before he chose Trabzonspor in a deal worth around €5.5 million.

Nwaiwu’s form in Turkey knocking on Super Eagles doors

Since arriving in the Turkish Süper Lig, Nwaiwu has quickly become a key figure in Trabzonspor’s defence. The 22-year-old centre-back has played 10 league matches, scoring two goals and providing one assist, while posting an impressive average rating of 7.58. His standout moment came in a 3-1 win over Fatih Karagümrük, where he scored twice and delivered a dominant all-round display.

Beyond the numbers, his style has stood out. Nwaiwu is strong in the air, calm on the ball, and confident in one-on-one defending. He has also shown leadership qualities despite his young age, helping organise the back line and contributing to important wins, including a recent 1-0 victory over Eyüpspor where he played the full 90 minutes.

His market value has already risen since his move, and his performances continue to attract attention across Europe. Many believe it is only a matter of time before Chelle gives him a chance with the Super Eagles, especially if he maintains this level of consistency.

For now, however, Nigeria’s defence remains packed with experienced and in-form options. Chelle can call on established names such as Calvin Bassey, Semi Ajayi and Chidozie Awaziem, alongside emerging talents like Ogbu and Fernandez. This depth means competition for places is fierce, and even impressive performers like Nwaiwu must wait.

While his omission may feel disappointing, it could also serve as motivation. If his current trajectory continues, the Trabzonspor defender looks set to become a regular name in future Nigeria squads.