Nigeria’s U20 soccer team has seen withdrawals from key players Dubem Eze and Abube Onuchukwu after a training camp relocation from Abuja to Katsina State. Both players opted to represent Nigeria but ultimately decided to withdraw due to concerns over the new camp venue and communication delays.
The Nigeria U20s soccer team has recently experienced withdrawals from key players, Dubem Eze and Abube Onuchukwu, due to a change in their training camp location. Eze, who is affiliated with Bolton Wanderers and previously trained with Chelsea’s youth squad, along with Ipswich Town’s Onuchukwu, were both initially set to represent Nigeria rather than England’s youth teams. The training took place in Abuja and was intended to prepare them for upcoming friendlies against Ivory Coast, but they have now opted out after a relocation to Katsina State.
The team was scheduled to transition to a final training phase at a hotel in Katsina, starting March 9, 2025. Unfortunately, a communication lapse resulted in Eze and Onuchukwu receiving late notifications regarding their participation for two friendly matches against the Young Elephants. Although the Nigeria Football Federation later reached out to ensure their involvement for the Afcon campaign, the duo ultimately decided against joining the team due to concerns about the relocation.
Despite the training period not aligning with FIFA’s designated calendar, Bolton Wanderers and Ipswich Town showed willingness to release both players. The Nigeria Football Federation’s Assistant Head of International Competitions, Aliyu Lawal Ibrahim, communicated with the academies concerning the players’ participation. Eze and Onuchukwu’s decision to withdraw reflects apprehension towards the uncertainties associated with the camp’s new venue.
In summary, the Nigeria U20s have faced setbacks with the withdrawal of two promising players following a change in their training camp location. Both Dubem Eze and Abube Onuchukwu had initially committed to representing Nigeria but ultimately decided to withdraw due to logistical uncertainties. This situation underscores the challenges faced by youth teams when navigating scheduling and communication with clubs.
Original Source: www.allnigeriasoccer.com
