Chelle Sweat Over Dele-Bashiru Ahead of AFCON 2027

Super Eagles head coach Éric Chelle now has a new concern as midfielder Fisayo Dele-Bashiru faces a prolonged injury struggle ahead of upcoming Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers. Dele-Bashiru, 25, has been a dependable figure for Nigeria throughout Chelle's tenure as coach, appearing as either a starter or substitute. The midfielder was anticipated to join the national team camp for the upcoming qualifiers, but a thigh injury sustained during Lazio's opening match against Bologna has sidelined him.

Dele-Bashiru remained out until recently, when it was revealed he could resume full training and potentially feature as a substitute in Lazio's Serie A match against AC Milan this weekend. However, recent reports from Radio Sei Lazio suggest that Dele-Bashiru will instead require further rest, meaning he will not play in AC Milan and may not be available for Nigeria.

This setback presents a challenge for Chelle, who will need to find alternate midfield solutions. He is already dealing with another injury concern, having lost Tochukwu Nnadi, who is nursing a knee injury while playing for Olympique de Marseille. As Nigeria prepares for the international break, Chelle may need to adapt his tactics and provide opportunities for other midfielders to stake their claim for a place in both the squad and the lineup.