Super Eagles: Former PSG, Bayer Leverkusen target called up to replace Calvin Bassey

Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle has handed a last-minute call-up to Trabzonspor star Chibuike Nwaiwu ahead of Nigeria’s friendly games against Jordan and Iran, Afrik-Foot reports.

On Wednesday, news broke that Fulham star Calvin Bassey had pulled out of Nigeria’s squad for the friendly games against Iran and Jordan. The news was a significant blow, as the former Ajax man has been the primary authority in Nigeria’s backline over the past year.

But this evening, according to the official Super Eagles account, coach Chelle has handed a maiden call-up to Trabzonspor star Nwaiwu.

Trabzonspor defender Chibuike Nwaiwu. Photo by Seskimphoto /IMAGO

The earlier omission of the 22-year-old center-back from Chelle’s 23-man list raised eyebrows, as he has been one of the fastest-growing Nigerian players in Europe.

He only recently made the switch from Nigeria Premier Football League club Enyimba to Austrian side Wolfsberger in 2024, where he was highly impressive in his debut year, playing a vital role in their Austrian Cup triumph.

It did not take long for speculation linking him with big-money moves to PSG, Bayer Leverkusen, Leeds, and other top clubs in Europe’s top five leagues to emerge.

Eventually, a €5.5 million transfer to Süper Lig club Trabzonspor sufficed. Since his move, he has become a key player at the back for coach Fatih Tekke. So far, he has featured in 12 games, with two goals and one assist to his name.

What Nwaiwu Brings To The Super Eagles

Chibuike Nwaiwu and other Trabzonspor players celebrating a goal — Chibuike Nwaiwu and other Trabzonspor players (Photo credit/club X)

Although Calvin Bassey is playing at an elite level at the moment, Chibuike Nwaiwu brings something fresh and valuable to the side.

First of all, he is versatile. He can operate across all positions in the defense and even as a defensive midfielder. He has an imposing 6’4″ frame and uses his physical stature to full advantage.

Nwaiwu has a commanding presence in aerial situations, is a nightmare for opponents in physical duels, and is excellent in possession. This means he can be a key asset for the Chelle setup, which prioritizes building play from the back.

The Trabzonspor man also has an innate ability to pop up with a goal or two on occasion.

Eric Chelle, coach of Nigeria Super Eagles, looks on in a friendly football match between Russia and Nigeria — Eric Chelle, coach of Nigeria Super Eagles. (Photo by Imago)

He will be looking to impress coach Chelle to earn his debut and potentially become a permanent fixture in the squad moving forward.

The Super Eagles play Iran first on Friday, March 27, before locking horns with Jordan on Tuesday, March 31. Both games will be played in Antalya, Turkey.