Olympiacos defender Bruno Onyemaechi’s place in the Super Eagles squad appears uncertain following limited involvement in Nigeria’s 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Rwanda and Zimbabwe. Despite being the only natural left back in the team, Onyemaechi played just 23 minutes in Kigali, with Ola Aina preferred on the left to accommodate Bright Osayi-Samuel on the right.
According to a source close to the national team, Onyemaechi “struggled throughout the week in training camp,” raising doubts over his form and readiness. Head coach Eric Chelle has openly stated that he is actively scouting for a new left back.
Onyemaechi, 26, has earned 11 caps since debuting in September 2023 under former coach José Peseiro. However, he failed to make an appearance at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations in Côte d’Ivoire and has seen his role diminish since.
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Editorial
Bruno Onyemaechi’s dwindling presence in the Super Eagles setup underscores the brutal nature of international football where form, fitness, and tactical fit can outweigh past contributions in a heartbeat.
Once viewed as the natural heir to Nigeria’s left back role, his minimal involvement in key qualifiers signals a shift. That Ola Aina, a right back by trade, was deployed on the left, says more about Onyemaechi’s current standing than any official statement could.
Coach Chelle’s intent to find a new left back adds further weight to the speculation. And in a squad where depth is rising and competition is unforgiving, Onyemaechi must see this as a call to arms. The next few months could define whether he reclaims his spot or fades into the background.
Did You Know?
- Bruno Onyemaechi currently plays for Olympiacos in the Greek Super League.
- He made his international debut for Nigeria in September 2023 against São Tomé and Príncipe.
- During the 2023 AFCON tournament, Onyemaechi did not feature in a single match despite being in the squad.
- Ola Aina, who replaced him at left-back, is naturally right-footed and plays for Nottingham Forest in the Premier League.
- Onyemaechi’s most active international spell came under Augustine Eguavoen during Nigeria’s 2025 AFCON qualifiers.
