Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has confirmed that Udinese, the Italian club of defender Nelson Okoye, requested that the player remain with the team in Italy for some activities ahead of Nigeria's Africa Cup of Nations qualifying fixture against Madagascar on Friday.
Speaking at a press conference ahead of the crucial World Cup qualifying match, Chelle revealed that the Serie A club asked that Okoye stay back rather than travel with the national team to face the Barea of Madagascar.
"Udinese requested that Okoye remain with them for some activities," Chelle said. "He is not with us at the camp right now because of that request."
The development means Okoye will miss the Super Eagles' training session and preliminary activities at the camp, though Chelle indicated the coach is still evaluating the situation regarding the defender's availability for the match.
The Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Madagascar represents an important fixture for Nigeria, who are seeking maximum points to strengthen their position in the qualifying group. The Super Eagles will be without injured Victor Osimhen, with Akor Adams named to lead the attack in his absence.
Okoye's absence adds to Nigeria's defensive concerns, though Chelle emphasized the team must adapt to the circumstances. The coach did not specify when Okoye might join the camp or whether the situation would be resolved before Friday's match.
The situation highlights the ongoing tension between club and country obligations during international windows, with Premier League and Serie A clubs increasingly reluctant to release players for extended periods, particularly when AFCON tournaments approach.
Nigeria currently sits in a competitive qualifying position, and the match against Madagascar represents an opportunity to consolidate their standing before the next round of fixtures.
Chelle said the technical crew would monitor the situation and provide updates as they become available, but for now, Okoye remains in Italy as Udinese prepares for their own domestic commitments.