The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) is set to officially present Eric Chelle as the new head coach of the Super Eagles on Monday in Abuja, the nation’s capital.
Chelle’s appointment was confirmed on Tuesday, January 7, by the NFF Executive Committee, following a recommendation from the federation’s Technical and Development Committee.
The 47-year-old Franco-Malian takes on one of football’s most demanding roles, but NFF President Alhaji Ibrahim Musa Gusau expressed confidence in Chelle’s abilities. Speaking on Sunday, Gusau stated that Chelle represents the fresh energy, innovative thinking, and positive attitude needed to guide the Super Eagles through their remaining six matches in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign.
Read Also: Five positive attributes of new Super Eagles coach, Eric Chelle
“We recognize Nigerians’ deep passion for football, which explains the diverse reactions to Coach Chelle’s appointment,” Gusau said. “However, we appeal to all Nigerians to unite and support him, as we believe he has the qualities required for success with the Super Eagles. The NFF will ensure he gets all the support needed to excel.”
During Monday’s unveiling, the NFF will also announce Chelle’s assistants. The coaching team will oversee the Super Eagles B squad at next month’s African Nations Championship in East Africa before turning their full attention to the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, starting with matches against Rwanda (away) and Zimbabwe (home) in March.
Chelle, who previously led Mali’s Aiglons to within touching distance of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations semi-finals, has resigned from his role at top Algerian club MC Oran, 1989 African Champions’ Cup finalists, to take up the Super Eagles job.
Join BusinessDay whatsapp Channel, to stay up to date
Open In Whatsapp
