Chelsea loanees Lesley Ugochukwu and Carney Chukwuemeka are yet to commit to Nigeria despite rumors of an allegiance switch.
Despite claims that the duo could feature in Eric Chelle’s first provisional squad as Super Eagles head coach, neither midfielder has made a decision regarding their international future.
Reports had suggested that the Nigeria Football Federation, NFF was actively working to secure both players for the national team.
However, a family member of Ugochukwu speaking to OJB Sports dismissed these claims.
“We haven’t received any call from anyone. Lesley’s focus is solely on his club. We’re not aware of any provisional list, nor has he submitted any documents for a nationality switch,” the source stated.
Both players, who currently play in the English Premier League, remain eligible to represent either Nigeria or their birth nations; France for Ugochukwu and England for Chukwuemeka.
Background and Eligibility
Chukwuemeka, born in Austria to Nigerian parents, grew up in England and has represented the country at youth level. He joined Chelsea in 2022 and is currently on loan at Borussia Dortmund.
Ugochukwu, born in France to Nigerian parents, has played for the French national youth teams and joined Chelsea in 2023. The 20-year-old is also the nephew of former Super Eagles defender Onyekachi Apam and on loan to Southampton.
Clarification on Nationality Switch
Earlier reports suggested that the midfield duo had applied for a nationality switch and were included in Nigeria’s 31-man provisional squad for the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Rwanda and Zimbabwe.
However, BBC journalist Oluwashina Okeleji also clarified that only a federation can initiate a player’s nationality switch.
“Only a federation can apply on behalf of players if they intend to switch. The news circulating now is fake,” the official stated.
A Future Option for Nigeria?
Both Chukwuemeka and Ugochukwu could offer exciting options for Nigeria if they eventually decide to switch allegiance.
Chukwuemeka, an attacking midfielder, has shown glimpses of his potential in the Premier League and is regarded as one of England’s promising young talents.
Ugochukwu, a defensive midfielder, provides stability and could bolster Nigeria’s options in the middle of the park.
Super Eagles Focused on World Cup Qualification
Nigeria’s priority remains securing crucial wins in the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.
The Super Eagles currently sit fifth in their group and must avoid further setbacks against Rwanda and Zimbabwe.
While Chukwuemeka and Ugochukwu remain eligible for Nigeria in the future, they have not been included in the squad for the upcoming fixtures and will not feature in next month’s games.
