The newly appointed Head Coach of the Super Eagles, Éric Chelle, has pledged to bring an attacking philosophy to the team and explained the importance of scoring goals.
Chelle made this declaration during his official unveiling at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium in Abuja on Monday.
The Franco-Malian tactician, who played for clubs like Valenciennes, Lens, and Chamois Niortais and earned five caps for Mali, expressed his excitement about taking on what he described as a dream role.
Chelle’s Vision for the Super Eagles
Speaking at his unveiling ceremony, Éric Chelle said, “Football is about scoring goals, so I favour an attacking style. I know the expectations of Nigerians, and I will settle down and work diligently with my assistants towards the goal of qualifying the Super Eagles for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.”
He added, “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.”
Éric Chelle was officially introduced as the 37th coach of the Super Eagles, signing a two-year deal with the option of an additional year if he qualifies the team for the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the USA, Canada, and Mexico.
NFF’s Confidence in Chelle
Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) President Ibrahim Gusau reiterated his belief in Chelle’s ability to lead the Super Eagles back to prominence.
Gusau praised the coach’s confidence and readiness for the role.
“I see in the new Head Coach the right spirit and the right attitude, and I have faith that he will take the Super Eagles to the next level,” Gusau said.
He continued, “Coach Chelle sees this job as his dream job, and that is a huge motivation.”
”He recognizes and appreciates what is ahead of him, and he says he loves the challenge. We will be there giving him the necessary support all the way.”
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Chairman of the National Sports Commission, Shehu Dikko, has said he’s with the process that led to Chelle’s appointment.
He assured that the NSC would fully back the NFF’s decision.
Éric Chelle will also supervise the Super Eagles B team as they prepare for the upcoming 8th African Nations Championship in Ikenne, though his role in this capacity will primarily be observational.
Chelle’s immediate task is to prepare the Super Eagles for their 2026 World Cup qualifying matches in March, where they will face Rwanda and Zimbabwe.
The team currently sits fifth in their group with just three points from four games.
As part of his coaching philosophy, Chelle has vowed to work with his assistants and the existing technical team to elevate the Super Eagles’ performance.
The unveiling ceremony was attended by notable figures, including NFF Technical Director Augustine Eguavoen, NFF General Secretary Mohammed Sanusi, and Senior Special Assistant to the President on Grassroots Sports Development, Anthony Adeboye
