Former Super Eagles captain John Obi Mikel has voiced significant concerns regarding the squad selected by head coach Eric Chelle for the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco. Speaking on his "Obi One Podcast," Mikel Obi suggested that Chelle might not have exercised full control over the selection process, implying that external influences played a role in shaping the final 28-man roster. This sentiment casts a shadow over Nigeria's prospects for AFCON 2025, with Mikel stating, "I don't think the right players are being selected from what I hear. I think the manager doesn't have the full authority to select who he wants. I think there's a lot of influence on his selection."

The squad announcement has sparked controversy due to several prominent exclusions and surprising inclusions. Notable players omitted from the roster include Udinese goalkeeper Maduka Okoye, Wolves striker Tolu Arokodare, and Crystal Palace's Christantus Uche. Conversely, the recall of Francis Uzoho over Okoye and the inclusion of five debutants – Ryan Alebiosu, Usman Muhammed, Ebenezer Akinsanmiro, Tochukwu Nnadi, and Salim Fago Lawal – have raised eyebrows among fans and pundits alike. Despite these concerns, fans remain optimistic that key players such as Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman, and Alex Iwobi can still deliver Nigeria's first AFCON trophy since 2013. Nigeria is slated to play a friendly against Egypt before commencing their Group C campaign against Tanzania, Uganda, and Tunisia.

Adding to the uncertainty, data-driven predictions from Opta's supercomputer have assigned Nigeria's Super Eagles minimal chances of winning the 2025 AFCON. Despite finishing as runners-up in the 2023 edition, the Super Eagles are projected with only a 7.3% probability of emerging as champions, placing them fifth among the tournament's contenders. This projection ranks Nigeria significantly behind the top favourites: host nation Morocco (19.1%), Egypt (12.4%), Senegal (12.3%), and Algeria (12.0%).

Opta's analysis highlights several factors contributing to Nigeria's reduced chances. The Super Eagles face a tricky group-stage path in Group C, where their 42.9% chance of topping the group is only marginally better than Tunisia’s 40.1%, indicating fine margins for securing a favourable knockout route. Furthermore, concerns persist over squad balance and defensive depth. Key figures are missing, including captain William Troost-Ekong, the Player of the Tournament in 2023, who has retired from international football, and key defenders Ola Aina and Benjamin Fredrick, who are currently sidelined by injury. The new head coach, Éric Chelle, appointed earlier this year following the departures of José Peseiro and Finidi George, is also still settling into his role, contributing to overall team instability. While Nigeria boasts elite attacking talent in Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman, the combination of injuries, coaching transition, and a highly competitive draw has significantly impacted their statistical prospects for the trophy in Morocco.