Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has reportedly voiced serious concerns about the quality and competitiveness of the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) following an extensive scouting tour across the country ahead of the upcoming Unity Cup in London.
The Malian tactician travelled to several NPFL venues in recent weeks to assess home-based players for possible inclusion in Nigeria’s squad for the four-nation tournament, which will feature Nigeria, Zimbabwe, Jamaica, and India.
However, according to reports, Chelle was left underwhelmed by the overall standard of play displayed during several league matches he monitored.
The former Mali coach is believed to have questioned whether the performances on display truly reflected the level expected from Nigeria’s top-flight domestic competition.
Sources close to the Super Eagles boss suggest that while he identified flashes of individual brilliance, he remains unconvinced that many NPFL players are currently ready to compete consistently at international level alongside established foreign-based professionals.
Beyond player quality, Chelle is also said to have concerns about tactical discipline, coaching structures, and recruitment processes within the domestic league system.
The coach reportedly believes many players still require significant technical and tactical refinement before they can make a meaningful impact in the national team.
Despite those reservations, several NPFL stars are still expected to earn opportunities with the Super Eagles during the Unity Cup. At least six home-based players are reportedly set to be included in the squad.
Among the standout performers attracting Chelle’s attention is Joseph Arumala, who has enjoyed an impressive campaign with Ikorodu City after scoring 13 league goals this season.
Reports indicate that Ikorodu City could provide as many as three players for the tournament squad, while Enugu Rangers are expected to contribute two representatives.
Players from Rivers United and Shooting Stars are also believed to be under strong consideration.
Nigeria will face Zimbabwe in the semi-final of the Unity Cup at The Valley on May 26. The winner will progress to the final on May 30 against either Jamaica or India.
Chelle’s reported assessment is likely to spark fresh debate about the current state of domestic football in Nigeria and the growing gap between local players and their counterparts competing abroad.
For many NPFL stars, the Unity Cup could now serve as both an opportunity and a proving ground to change the coach’s perception on the international stage.
