The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) on Monday unveiled Eric Chelle as the new Super Eagles head coach in a ceremony at the Media Conference Room of the MKO Abiola National Stadium in Abuja, Afrosport reports.
Chelle, a former Mali international, led the Eagles to the quarterfinals at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), and he joins the Super Eagles on an initial two-year deal, with the option for a further year if the team qualifies for the 2026 FIFA World Cup finals.
The 47-year-old former defender expressed his excitement at the opportunity to coach the three-time African champions and thanked the NFF and the National Sports Commission (NSC) for trusting him.
“I want to thank my agent, the NFF, the NSC and indeed all Nigerians for this big opportunity,” he said. “Coaching the Super Eagles of Nigeria is an amazing job; I do not take this appointment for granted. I am elated and will do my utmost best.”
Chelle also gave the Nigerian fans a glimpse into his coaching style and vowed to help the Super Eagles qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
“Football is about scoring goals, so I favour an attacking style,” the Malian stated. “I know the expectations of Nigerians and I will settle down and work diligently with assistants towards the goal of qualifying the Super Eagles to the 2026 FIFA World Cup.”
Meanwhile, NFF President, Alhaji Ibrahim Musa Gusau, once again called upon Nigerians to give their full support to the new Super Eagles boss and trust in his abilities.
“I see in the new head coach the right spirit and the right attitude, and I have faith that he will take the Super Eagles to the next level,” said Gusau. “He sees the job of leading the Super Eagles as his dream job, and that is a huge motivation in itself.
“Coach Chelle recognises and appreciates what is ahead of him, and he says he loves the challenge. We will be there giving him the necessary support all the way.”
Likewise, NSC Chairman Shehu Dikko affirmed the NSC’s support for the new boss, adding that he was satisfied with the process that led to his recruitment by the NFF.
“Football is that one factor that unites all Nigerians and gives them tremendous joy,” said Dikko. “On our part, we are satisfied with the process leading to Mr. Chelle’s appointment and will support the NFF to ensure he has the most conducive atmosphere to do his job.
“The task of earning the World Cup ticket is for everyone, as the Government is fully ready to provide support, not in the form of any individual or group taking over the job of the NFF. The NFF is saddled with that responsibility; the Government will only support it with resources. I wish Coach Chelle the very best in the job.”
Eric Chelle has reportedly brought in three of his own assistants, who are all expected to work with the existing structure. He will, however, take on a supervisory role as the CHAN Eagles amp up preparation for the 2024 African Nations Championship.
