Unity Cup 2026: 10 exciting stars Eric Chelle could unleash for Super Eagles

Nigeria’s Super Eagles are already building towards the 2026 Unity Cup, which is scheduled for later this May in London, Afrik-Foot reports.

Head coach Eric Chelle is expected to hand opportunities to several emerging talents, fringe internationals and standout Nigeria Premier Football League stars.

The three-time African champions won the last edition of the Unity Cup after beating Ghana and later defeating Jamaica on penalties in the final. That competition gave several lesser-known players the chance to wear the famous green-and-white shirt, among which Benjamin Fredrick is the brightest star.

This year’s tournament is expected to follow a similar pattern. Nigeria are preparing to face Zimbabwe and one of either Jamaica or India in London, with Chelle keen to test new faces ahead of future Africa Cup of Nations and World Cup qualifying matches.

The former Mali coach has repeatedly hinted that the Unity Cup will be used to examine players outside the regular Super Eagles core. That decision could open the door for some of the most exciting Nigerian footballers across Europe and the NPFL.

Deserving stars who could light up the Unity Cup

Owen Oseni

The powerful Plymouth Argyle striker has quietly become one of the most exciting Nigerian forwards in England’s lower divisions. His movement inside the penalty area and sharp finishing have reportedly caught Chelle’s attention.

With the Unity Cup taking place in London, Oseni could enjoy a near home atmosphere if selected. The striker has been linked with a possible invitation after impressing in the EFL with his aggressive pressing and eye for goal. Nigeria’s coaching staff are believed to see him as a long-term attacking project.

Rafiu Durosinmi

Tall, physical and difficult to stop when running at defenders, Rafiu Durosinmi offers something completely different in attack.

The Pisa striker endured a difficult campaign in Italy after the club’s relegation struggles, but his earlier performances in the Czech Republic showed why many scouts rate him highly. His ability to hold up play has led some observers to compare aspects of his game to legendary Nigerian forward Nwankwo Kanu.

The Unity Cup may be the perfect competition to test Durosinmi as an alternative to Nigeria’s more established forwards.

Philip Otele

The explosive Hamburg winger already has a small taste of international football after featuring in friendly matches against Iraq and Jordan earlier this year.

Although his first appearances did not fully convince the coaching staff, Otele’s pace, direct dribbling and crossing ability still make him one of the most dangerous wide players available to Nigeria outside the regular squad.

After an impressive campaign in Germany, the Unity Cup could offer him a second opportunity to prove he belongs at senior international level.

Moses Usor

Few Nigerian players in Europe have improved more this season than Moses Usor.

The versatile attacker enjoyed a sensational campaign with LASK, scoring 15 goals and producing 10 assists as the Austrian club secured a famous league and cup double. It was the club’s first league title in more than 60 years, and Usor played a central role throughout the season.

Fast in transition, strong in one-versus-one situations and fearless in tight spaces, the 24-year-old is now attracting interest from bigger European clubs. A strong Unity Cup performance could push him even closer to a major summer transfer.

Emmanuel Fernandez

The Rangers defender has rapidly become one of the most reliable defensive prospects available to Nigeria.

After a brilliant season in Scotland, Fernandez was named Rangers Player of the Season and also earned a place in the Scottish Premiership Team of the Year. His calmness on the ball and physical strength have already impressed Chelle’s technical crew.

Fernandez also enjoyed a memorable start to international football after scoring against Iraq on his full Super Eagles debut. At just 24, many supporters already believe he could become a long-term defensive leader for Nigeria.

Papa Daniel

The midfielder’s rise over the last 12 months has been remarkable.

Papa Daniel first caught public attention during the Unity Cup against Ghana last year while still playing domestic football in Nigeria. Since then, he has moved to Slovenian side NK Celje and recently celebrated winning his first European league title.

Comfortable in possession and aggressive without the ball, Daniel has developed into a more complete midfielder. Chelle could view the Unity Cup as the ideal environment to test whether he can become Nigeria’s next midfield anchor.

Femi Azeez

Millwall winger Femi Azeez enjoyed a stunning Championship season, helping the club secure a third-place finish while attracting Premier League interest from clubs including Ipswich Town.

Azeez was voted into the Championship Team of the Year after producing goals, assists and several match-winning performances. His ability to attack defenders directly and create chances from wide positions could make him serious competition for Samuel Chukwueze on the Super Eagles right flank.

Arthur Okonkwo

The Wrexham goalkeeper has already made his international future clear by committing himself to Nigeria.

Okonkwo impressed throughout the season despite Wrexham narrowly missing out on the Championship playoffs. His calm distribution, quick reflexes and command of the penalty area have made him one to watch for several top clubs.

Adding him to a goalkeeping group that already includes Stanley Nwabali and Maduka Okoye would significantly strengthen the Super Eagles’ options.

Joseph Arumala

Ikorodu City striker Joseph Arumala has emerged as one of the biggest stories in the NPFL this season.

The former Nigeria U-17 forward has scored 13 league goals and played a major role in Ikorodu City’s impressive campaign. His pace, pressing intensity and confidence in front of goal have reportedly placed him high on Chelle’s shortlist for the Unity Cup.

For a player who has worked his way through grassroots football in Lagos, a Super Eagles invitation would mark a major breakthrough moment.

Michael Atata

Young goalkeeper Michael Atata could become one of the biggest surprises in Chelle’s squad.

The Ikorodu City shot-stopper has kept 16 clean sheets this season, the highest total in the NPFL, despite being one of the youngest goalkeepers in the division.

His sharp reflexes, bravery in one-on-one situations and composure under pressure have earned widespread praise across Nigerian football circles. The Unity Cup may offer him the perfect stage to show he can compete at international level.