UNITY CUP CHELLE KEEPS SNUBBING THEM, BUT THESE 7 NPFL STARS ARE IMPOSSIBLE TO IGNORE

UNITY CUP: CHELLE KEEPS SNUBBING THEM, BUT THESE 7 NPFL STARS ARE IMPOSSIBLE TO IGNORE As Nigeria prepares for the upcoming Unity Cup in London, Super Eagles head coach Éric Chelle has continued his policy of overlooking several standout performers in the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) but pressure is mounting as a group of seven domestic league stars deliver performances too strong to ignore. The Unity Cup, scheduled for late May in London, will see Nigeria defend their title against teams including Jamaica, Zimbabwe, and India, with Chelle expected to test new players ahead of major international fixtures.

While the coach has already hinted at giving opportunities to NPFL talents, fans and analysts argue that several in-form players deserve immediate national team recognition.

1. Ayobami Junior Shooting Stars

One of the most creative midfielders in the NPFL, Ayobami Junior has been the league’s standout playmaker this season, leading in assists and dictating games with elite vision and passing range.

His performances have drawn comparisons to classic Nigerian playmakers, with fans insisting he could solve Nigeria’s creativity issues.

2. Joseph Arumala Ikorodu City

A breakout attacking sensation, Arumala has lit up the league with his goalscoring form, emerging as one of the top scorers despite it being his debut NPFL season.

He combines pace, confidence, and clinical finishing qualities Nigeria has been searching for in attack.

3. Tosin Oyedokun Ikorodu City

The captain of Ikorodu City has been the team’s heartbeat, controlling midfield tempo and delivering key goals in crucial moments. His leadership and composure have made him one of the most reliable midfielders in the domestic league.

4. Anas Yusuf Nasarawa United / JS Saoura

A proven NPFL goal machine, Anas Yusuf finished as league top scorer with 18 goals before earning a move abroad.

His instinct in front of goal and movement inside the box have kept him in constant discussion for Super Eagles selection.

5. 5. Sodiq Ismail Remo StarsA modern full-back with pace and attacking intent, Ismail has been a standout in both defensive stability and overlapping runs, contributing assists and defensive solidity.

6. Godwin Obaje Enugu Rangers

A seasoned NPFL striker, Obaje brings experience, positioning intelligence, and consistent goal threat valuable qualities for a transitional national team setup.

7. Daddy Abdulrahman El-Kanemi Warrior

One of the league’s most aggressive defensive midfielders, Abdulrahman offers physical presence, ball recovery, and balance in midfield battles. He is widely regarded as a potential “destroyer” role option Nigeria currently lacks. Coach Éric Chelle has made it clear that the Unity Cup will be used to test new players and expand squad depth, particularly from the NPFL and fringe European leagues. However, his reluctance to immediately integrate domestic league standouts has sparked debate among fans who believe the NPFL is producing ready-made Super Eagles talent. Reports suggest Chelle may include up to 5–6 NPFL players in the Unity Cup squad, but many believe this number should be higher given current performances.

With the Unity Cup approaching, pressure is mounting on the Super Eagles coaching staff to strike a balance between experimentation and rewarding form. For now, these seven NPFL stars continue to make their case the hard way through consistent performances that are becoming increasingly impossible to ignore.