Super Eagles defender Felix Agu has been ruled out of Nigeria’s 2026 FIFA World Cup playoffs and the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco following a serious injury setback, reports Nigeriasoccernet.com.
The Werder Bremen full-back sustained a syndesmosis ligament injury last month and subsequently underwent surgery. However, his recovery process has taken longer than initially anticipated, effectively ruling him out for the remainder of the year.
Werder Bremen’s head of professional football, Peter Niemeyer, confirmed the development while providing an update on the player’s condition.
“His return will definitely not take place until the new year,” Niemeyer told DeichStube.
Agu’s absence is a significant blow for Nigeria head coach Eric Chelle, who had counted on the 24-year-old’s versatility and consistency in both full-back positions. The defender’s pace, overlapping runs, and defensive discipline had made him a reliable option in recent Super Eagles setups.
The setback now leaves Nigeria with limited options in defence ahead of the November World Cup playoff fixtures and the AFCON finals in January, adding to Chelle’s growing list of injury concerns.
Despite the disappointment, Werder Bremen officials are optimistic that Agu will make a full recovery and return stronger in 2026.