Ekpo backs Chelle’s squad for AFCON 2025

Former Nigerian international Friday Ekpo says Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle alone understands the rationale behind introducing several new players into his final squad for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.

Chelle on Thursday released his list for the tournament, which runs from December 21, 2025, to January 18, 2026, in Morocco. The squad comprises three goalkeepers, eight defenders, eight midfielders, and nine forwards.

The roster includes a number of fresh faces across various positions, including Blackburn Rovers full-back Ryan Alebiosu, Pisa midfielder Ebenezer Akinsanmiro, Israel-based Usman Muhammed, Zulte Waregem’s Tochukwu Nnadi, and Istra 1961 striker Lawal Salim Fago.

Reacting to the announcement, Ekpo suggested that injuries to key players may have influenced Chelle’s decision to bring in newcomers.