Nigeria coach Eric Chelle has released a 55-man preliminary squad ahead of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.
This marks the first step in the Super Eagles’ preparations following their narrow miss in the World Cup Intercontinental playoffs.
Sources close to the team confirmed that training camp will commence on December 8 in Morocco, though Chelle will significantly reduce the squad before the tournament opener on December 21.
CAF’s updated squad rules now allow up to 27 players per team, though only 23 will be covered for costs including travel and accommodation.
The remaining slots must be funded by each federation, giving coach’s room to experiment but requiring careful budgeting.
Nigeria has not lifted the AFCON trophy since 2013, and Chelle faces pressure to end the 12-year wait for a fourth continental title.
The expanded squad reflects his strategy to identify players capable of delivering both experience and future potential.
