Earlier this year, the coach personally reached out to Ethan Nwaneri’s entourage to convince him to wear the green-and-white jersey.

Impressed by the Arsenal attacking midfielder’s creative style, the coach made him his top priority to fill the No. 10 role and address the Super Eagles shortcomings in the final third of the field.

​This major diplomatic offensive nearly paid off, as direct discussions and a summer meeting were planned between the Nwaneri camp and the Nigerian Football Federation.

However, this meticulous plan was abruptly derailed when the Gunners rising star was called up to the England senior national team’s training camp ahead of the World Cup.

Despite this strong interest from across the Channel, Eric Chelle and the Nigerian coaching staff have no intention of giving up on this highly strategic matter.

Having already gained experience playing for England’s youth national teams, the player has not yet made any final decision regarding his senior international career.

A fierce diplomatic and sporting battle is therefore expected to ensue to secure one of the most promising talents of his generation.