Eric Chelle will replace Finidi George as Nigeria Super Eagles permanent coach and the NFF wants Nigerians to give the Malian a chance.
The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) is set to unveil Eric Sekou Chelle as the new Head Coach of the Super Eagles on Monday, January 13, 2025.
The presentation will take place at the Media Conference Room of the MKO Abiola National Stadium in Abuja, starting at 11 AM, according to a communique from their media department.
09:40 - 02.01.2025
Top 5 teams in the NPFL: Ghana slayer beats ex-Super Eagles coach Finidi George
A look at the top teams in the NPFL at the end of 2024, featuring Super Eagles coaches and Finidi George.
07:36 - 12.01.2025
Not an exciting news - Pulse Sports analysts offer mixed reactions to Eric Chelle's appointment
Pulse Sports Nigeria's pundits have highlighted their expectations for the new Super Eagles coach.
Chelle's appointment was officially confirmed by the NFF Executive Committee on January 7, following a recommendation from the Technical and Development Committee.
The 47-year-old coach, who previously led Mali's national team, is stepping into a critical role as Nigeria aims to secure qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
NFF President Alhaji Ibrahim Musa Gusau expressed confidence in Chelle's capabilities, stating that he embodies the "fresh energy, new thinking, and positive attitude" needed to guide the Super Eagles through their upcoming six matches in the World Cup qualifying campaign.
He acknowledged the passionate reactions from Nigerian fans regarding Chelle's appointment but urged unity and support for the new coach.
During the unveiling event, the NFF will also announce Chelle's coaching staff and outline their plans for the Super Eagles B team, which will compete in next month's African Nations Championship in East Africa.
Following that, Chelle will focus on critical World Cup qualifiers against Rwanda and Zimbabwe in March.
Chelle arrives at a decisive moment for the Super Eagles, who struggled under former coach Finidi George before Augustine Eguavoen stepped in as an interim to qualify the team for the AFCON 2025.
With a strong track record from his time with Mali, where he led them to the quarter-finals of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, Chelle's experience will be crucial as he seeks to revitalise Nigeria's fortunes in the 2026 FIFA WCQ.