Chukwueze to arrive Super Eagles camp late due to club committment

Super Eagles forward Samuel Chukwueze is set to join Nigeria’s Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) preparatory camp on January 3, a few days later than the initial camp opening on January 1, 2024.

The delay is due to an agreement between AC Milan and the Nigerian Football Federation (NFF), allowing Chukwueze to participate in AC Milan’s game against Cagliari on January 2.

Chukwueze secured a spot in Nigeria’s 25-man squad for the 2023 AFCON, scheduled to kick off in January.

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FIFA rules dictate that selected players should report to camp two weeks before the competition begins.

The timing of the AFCON has long been a subject of criticism, particularly as it coincides with the European football season. Many players, including those in Europe, find it challenging to adjust to the competition’s schedule.

AC Milan is directly impacted by this scheduling conflict, losing both Ismael Bennacer and Chukwueze for the AFCON.

AC Milan engaged in discussions with the Algerian and Nigerian football federations to allow both players to join the national teams on January 3, following their Serie A match against Cagliari.

While Algeria rejected AC Milan’s request for Bennacer, Nigeria accepted a similar proposal for Chukwueze.

As a result, Chukwueze will feature in AC Milan’s game on January 2 before promptly departing for the Super Eagles AFCON camp.

Nigeria kicks off their AFCON campaign on January 14 with a match against Equatorial Guinea.

Chukwueze’s delayed arrival is a compromise to accommodate both his club commitments and national team duties as he prepares to represent Nigeria in the continental tournament.