Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle has ruled out Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman for the upcoming friendlies against Poland and Portugal next month.
Nigeria plays Poland in Warsaw on June 3, then faces Portugal in Leiria a week later on June 10. Both matches serve as warm-ups for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.
Osimhen won't make the trip due to transfer negotiations at his club. Chelle explained the striker's absence during a pivotal moment in his career.
"Victor is managing an important situation about his future," the coach told reporters. "He's the kind of player who needs to be fully focused or shouldn't play at all."
Losing Osimhen represents a major blow to Nigeria's attack. His goal-scoring form has been crucial to the Super Eagles' plans.
Lookman, meanwhile, gets a break on his club's request. Physical and mental tiredness from a grueling season forced the decision.
His club felt he needed recovery time away from international duty. Chelle accepted the recommendation without resistance.
Both absences open doors for reserve players to audition. Chelle plans to test squad depth ahead of competitive tournaments.
Nigeria hasn't played Poland or Portugal frequently in football history. These matches mark only the second encounters between the nations.
