The newly appointed head coach of the Super Eagles, Éric Chelle, has vowed to dedicate himself to ensuring Nigeria’s qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. During his official unveiling at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium in Abuja on Monday, Chelle emphasized his commitment to attacking football, promising to lead the team with a goal-scoring mentality.
Chelle, who earned five caps for Mali and played for various French clubs during his career, expressed his excitement and gratitude for the opportunity to manage one of Africa’s most successful football teams. “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 said, acknowledging the expectations of Nigerians and his resolve to work diligently towards the 2026 World Cup qualification.
The new head coach also outlined his preference for an attacking style of play, asserting that football is fundamentally about scoring goals. “I favour an attacking style,” he added, promising that he would focus on making the Super Eagles a more exciting and competitive team.
Ibrahim Gusau, the president of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), assured that the federation would fully support Chelle, emphasizing his faith in the coach’s capabilities. Gusau noted that Chelle’s confidence and commitment had impressed him during their recent interactions, and he was confident the coach would revitalize the team’s fortunes in the World Cup qualifying series. He also confirmed that Chelle had signed a two-year contract, with an option for an additional year should he successfully guide the Super Eagles to the 2026 World Cup finals.
Chelle will be supported by a team of three assistants, and while he will play a supervisory role with the Super Eagles B team as they prepare for the 8th African Nations Championship (CHAN), his focus will be on the senior squad’s World Cup ambitions. The NFF has promised to provide the necessary resources to ensure Chelle has the best conditions to succeed.
Shehu Dikko, Chairman of the National Sports Commission (NSC), affirmed the government’s full support for the NFF and the new coach. He reiterated that while the government would provide resources, it would not interfere with the NFF’s role in managing the team. Dikko also highlighted the unifying power of football in Nigeria, expressing hope that the Super Eagles would secure the World Cup ticket for the country.
The event was attended by various stakeholders, including Anthony Adeboye, Senior Special Assistant to the President of Grassroots Sports Development, and Sharif Inuwa, Chairman of the NFF Technical & Development Committee.
