Paul Onuachu: Chelle on alert after fresh twist with Super Eagles star at Trabzonspor

Super Eagles striker Paul Onuachu has become a concern for coach Éric Chelle once again, amid fresh doubts over his fitness, Soccernet.ng reports.

​The Nigerian forward has endured a turbulent start to the campaign. He had to wait until the fourth match of the season to open his account—a milestone that came at the cost of a minor injury.

​However, he appeared to recover quickly. Last week, the 30-year-old marksman featured for Trabzonspor, playing the full 90 minutes in a goalless stalemate against Konyaspor.

Onuachu, and teammates. Copyright: IMAGO

​He showed no obvious signs of distress during that match. Yet in a fresh development on Tuesday, Onuachu was conspicuously absent from Trabzonspor's training ground while the rest of the squad took part in the session.

He also did not share any picture of himself during training on his Instagram page, and this is unusual for Onuachu.

​His absence has sparked fears that he may be nursing another injury setback—a scenario that would deeply concern Trabzonspor ahead of their crucial clash with Galatasaray this weekend.

​Super Eagles: Should Éric Chelle Be Worried About Paul Onuachu?

Paul Onuachu celebrates Super Eagles goal vs Uganda during the AFCON 2025 (Photo by: IMAGOxThor Wegner/DeFodi Images)

​Super Eagles head coach Éric Chelle will undoubtedly be keeping a close eye on Onuachu's situation, as the towering forward remains the most viable option to lead the attack whenever Victor Osimhen is unavailable.

​Chelle’s high-pressing system demands immense physical exertion, meaning any player operating below peak fitness will struggle to retain their place. Onuachu faces fierce competition, with several Nigerian strikers currently flourishing across Europe.

Eric Chelle of Nigeria. Copyright: Imagoxloulidiphotox

​Rafiu Durosinmi is quickly proving to be one of the summer’s standout signings in the Belgian Pro League, Kelechi Iheanacho has found the net in seven consecutive games, and Gift Orban already boasts six league goals in the Süper Lig.

​While Trabzonspor have yet to confirm an injury, both club and national team staff will be hoping the striker is fit enough to return to action without delay.