NFF to unveil Eric Chelle as Super Eagles Head Coach, Monday

Eric Chelle is poised to officially assume his role as Head Coach of Nigeria’s Super Eagles during an unveiling ceremony at the MKO Abiola National Stadium, Abuja, scheduled for 11 a.m. on Monday.

The Franco-Malian coach’s appointment was confirmed by the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) last week, sparking mixed reactions among football enthusiasts. Despite concerns about his ability to lead one of Africa’s most prominent football teams, NFF President Ibrahim Gusau has expressed confidence in Chelle’s capabilities.

“We appreciate the passion Nigerians have for football, and we understand the varied reactions to Coach Chelle’s appointment,” Gusau stated on the NFF’s website. “We appeal to Nigerians to support him, as we believe he has the qualities to bring success to the Super Eagles. The NFF will provide him with all the support needed to excel.”

The unveiling will also include the announcement of Chelle’s backroom staff. His immediate task will be to lead the Super Eagles B squad at the upcoming African Nations Championship in East Africa. Following that, Chelle will focus on reviving the Super Eagles’ 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification campaign.

Currently fifth in their group and four points behind the leaders, the Super Eagles have faced a challenging start to their qualifiers. The team will aim for a turnaround in March, beginning with an away fixture against Rwanda, followed by a home clash with Zimbabwe.

Chelle, 47, brings notable experience to the role. As Mali’s head coach, he led the Aiglons to the quarter-finals of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, narrowly losing to Côte d’Ivoire. A former defender with five caps for Mali, Chelle has also managed clubs such as GS Consolat, FC Martigues, Boulogne, and MC Oran.

With Chelle at the helm, the NFF is optimistic about a new era for the Super Eagles, urging fans to rally behind the team as they pursue success on the global stage.