Eric Chelle has been named head coach of the Super Eagles by the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF).
In a statement on Tuesday, the NFF declared the Malian tactician’s appointment.
The decision was made in response to the suggestion made by the NFF’s Technical and Development Sub-Committee at its January 2, 2025, meeting in Abuja.
On January 7, 2025, the NFF Executive Committee formally approved the appointment.
Having managed teams like GS Consolat, FC Martigues, Boulogne, and MC Oran, Chelle, 47, brings a wealth of experience as a former head coach of Mali’s senior national team.
He represented Martigues, Valenciennes, Lens, Istres, and Chamois Niortais while he was a player in France.
Chelle had represented France, Mali, and Côte d’Ivoire, where he was born to a French father and a Malian mother. He chose to play for Mali, where he retired after five caps.
Chelle guided the Aiglons to the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) quarterfinals in Côte d’Ivoire while serving as Mali’s head coach from 2022 to 2024.
Mali lost 2-1 to the eventual champions after extra time, but they came dangerously close to the semi-finals. Mali had 14 victories, 5 draws, and 3 losses while he was in charge.
Although Chelle’s time with Mali came to an end in June 2024, his accomplishments—including one of the most memorable performances at the 2023 AFCON—left a lasting impression.
What you should know
Following Finidi George’s resignation due to the Super Eagles’ poor performance in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying tournament, which included a loss to the Benin Republic and a draw with South Africa, the head coach position became vacant.
Chelle’s appointment is effective immediately, and his main responsibility will be to lead Nigeria to the FIFA World Cup finals in 2026.
March will see the important Matchday 5 and 6 qualifiers.
