The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has confirmed the appointment of Eric Chelle as the new Head Coach of the Super Eagles. His designation, which takes effect immediately, charges him with the crucial task of steering the national team toward securing a coveted spot at the 2026 FIFA World Cup finals.
The decision was finalized following deliberations by the NFF’s Technical and Development Sub-Committee during a meeting in Abuja on Thursday, January 2, 2025. According to an official statement on the NFF website, “The Sub-Committee had proposed the appointment of the former Mali senior men’s national team coach, Eric Chelle, as the new Head Coach of the Super Eagles.” This proposal received unanimous endorsement from the NFF Executive Committee on Tuesday, January 7, 2025.
Chelle’s primary obligation will be to ensure that the Super Eagles clinch their place at the global football showpiece in 2026. His tenure commences with a high-stakes focus on the upcoming Matchdays 5 and 6 in March, which form a critical phase in the qualification process.
Having earned five international caps for Mali’s Aiglons during his playing days, Chelle brings a wealth of experience to the position. His managerial career has seen him at the helm of notable clubs, including GS Consolat, FC Martigues, Boulogne, and MC Oran. Most recently, he served as the Head Coach of Mali’s national team from 2022 until his dismissal on June 13, 2024.
The NFF’s decision to entrust Chelle with the Super Eagles reflects a strategic vision aimed at reinvigorating the team’s competitive edge on the global stage.
