While the three-time African kings will not feature at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the two matches are expected to play a crucial role in Chelle's rebuilding project as he continues to shape the team for future competitions.
Nigeria will face Poland in Warsaw on June 3 before travelling to Leiria seven days later for another high-profile clash against Cristiano Ronaldo-led Portugal.
Osimhen and Lookman, who enjoyed impressive seasons with Galatasaray and Atletico Madrid respectively headline the list of notable absentees for the fixtures with the Franco-Malian stating that they were due to circumstances beyond the team's control.
"Now we have two games, Poland and Portugal, and I have a lot of problems because some players don't have a visa like Samson Tijani and Al Hassan Yusuf and I cannot fight against the embassy,” said Chelle.
“We will also miss Victor Osimhen, who had to change his club, so we preferred that he stay in this house because if you play and you are not at 100 percent, this is not good.
“Lokman is very tired and Atletico asked us to let him. We will travel with (a few) players and we will see what happens after Poland and Portugal.
“We have to adapt to everything. We definitely go with our strengths and weaknesses. We will come back with something positive.”
Chelle's remarks about Osimhen have been widely interpreted as an indication that the striker is set to leave the Turkish giants, sparking intense speculation over his next destination.
The comments quickly fueled debate among fans and pundits, with several top European clubs being linked with the Nigeria international.
However, the former Napoli star later took to social media to dismiss the transfer speculation, insisting that the former Mali coach’s comments had been misinterpreted and did not confirm any imminent departure.
“I just got off the phone with coach Eric Chelle regarding the comments about me in his recent interview,” Osimhen wrote.
“Unfortunately, his words have been taken out of context and blown out of proportion. He has great respect for Galatasaray, follows most of our games, and never intended to create and controversy.
“I appreciate the conversation, the opportunity to always represent my country, and I look forward to continuing to work with him. He is a great coach whom I respect a lot, and I kindly ask everyone to disregard the speculation surrounding this matter. Thank you for your consistent support.”
Nigeria have been drawn in the same group as Madagascar, Guinea-Bissau, and Tunisia for the qualifiers for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations, which will be co-hosted by Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda.
