Arumala Leads Home-Based Stars In Chelle’s Super Eagles Unity Cup Squad

Ikorodu City forward Joseph Arumala has emerged as the headline name among the home-based players selected for Nigeria’s squad ahead of the 2026 Unity Cup in London.

The prolific striker earned recognition after an impressive campaign with Ikorodu City in the Nigeria Premier Football League, where he has netted 13 goals this season.

Super Eagles head coach Éric Chelle is understood to have rewarded the 21-year-old’s consistent form after closely monitoring several NPFL fixtures over recent weeks.

Reports indicate that two additional Ikorodu City players will also make the squad, underlining the club’s impressive rise during the current campaign.

Rangers International are expected to contribute two players, while representatives from Rivers United and Shooting Stars have also reportedly been included.

The selected players have already arrived in Abuja to begin processing travel documents and entry visas for the United Kingdom ahead of the competition.

Arumala, who previously represented Nigeria at Under-17 level, has been one of the standout performers in the domestic league this season, attracting attention with his pace, movement and eye for goal.

Chelle’s decision to include several NPFL stars is seen as a strong indication that the Malian coach is prepared to give home-based talents genuine opportunities within the senior national team set-up.

The Unity Cup tournament will provide the players with a valuable platform to prove themselves against international opposition.

Nigeria are scheduled to face Zimbabwe national football team in the semi-finals at The Valley in London on May 26.

The tournament is also expected to serve as part of Nigeria’s broader preparations for upcoming international assignments, including the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.

Chelle is expected to unveil the full Super Eagles squad later this week