Eric Chelle, the newly appointed head coach of the Super Eagles, has expressed confidence in his ability to succeed with the team despite widespread criticism surrounding his appointment.
Chelle’s selection has sparked debate among Nigerian football fans and analysts, many of whom question his experience and capability to manage one of Africa’s top national teams.
The 47-year-old previously coached Mali, leading them to the quarter-finals of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, where they lost 2-1 to host nation Cote d’Ivoire. He also managed Algerian club MC Oran, adding to his coaching résumé since retiring as a player in 2014.
In an interview with matinlibre.com, Chelle defended his credentials, stating, “Already, there are a lot of people who say that I don’t have much experience. But ultimately, I do have experience. I ended my career in 2014, and I’ve been coaching since that year,” he declared in an interview with matinlibre.com.
“I coached a team, let’s say, from West Africa (Mali) not long ago. I coached a team in Algeria, the Mouloudia Club d’Oran.
“So, I’m starting to get to know African football well. Today, I feel ready to lead this great team with great players. So, I’m part of the progression process; the players will help me progress, and I will help them progress too. Because I have a vision of football that will really fit well with this team.”
His immediate goal is to secure Nigeria’s qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Chelle’s first official test will be a qualifier against Rwanda’s Amavubi in March.
