Eric Chelle was unveiled as the new Super Eagles coach on Monday at the Media Conference Room of the MKO Abiola National Stadium, Abuja.
The Malian was introduced to the media in the company of top Nigeria Football Federation members, and the National Sports Commission Chairman, Shehu Dikko.
NFF President, Ibrahim Gusau disclosed that the tactician has signed a two-year contract, with the option of another year, if he qualifies the Super Eagles to the 2026 FIFA World Cup finals.
Chelle has also come into the job with three assistants, and will work with the crew on ground to enhance the Super Eagles’ brand.
He will be with the Super Eagles B – which is preparing for the upcoming 8th African Nations Championship – only in a supervisory role.
Chelle expressed his delight at the opportunity to coach the Super Eagles, while promising to transform the team.
He said: “I want to thank my agent, the NFF, the NSC and indeed all Nigerians for this big opportunity. 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.
“I’m so proud and honoured to be the new Super Eagles head coach. Nigeria has a great history with quality players like Ikpeba, Amokachi, Amuneke, Yekini, Oliseh, Eguavoen, Finidi, West, Obi Mikel and Babangida.
“I was a fan then and with this new generation too, Lookman, Osimhen and others.
“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 assistants towards the goal of qualifying the Super Eagles to the 2026 FIFA World Cup.”
NFF President, Ibrahim Gusau has urged Nigerians to rally behind Chelle to return the Super Eagles to the pinnacle of African football.
He said: “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. He sees the job of leading the Super Eagles as his dream job, and that is a huge motivation in itself.
“The NFF hereby appeals to Nigerians to come together and support him, as we believe he has the qualities to achieve success with the Super Eagles.
“Coach Chelle 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.”
Similarly, The Chairman of the National Sports Commission, Shehu Dikko promised that the Government will provide the necessary support for Chelle to succeed as Super Eagles coach.
He said: “Football is that one factor that unites all Nigerians and gives them tremendous joy. On our part, we are satisfied with the process leading to Mr. Chelle’s appointment and will support the NFF to ensure he has the most conducive atmosphere to do his job.
“The task of earning the World Cup ticket is for everyone, as the Government is fully ready to provide support, not in the form of any individual or group taking over the job of the NFF. The NFF is saddled with that responsibility; the Government will only support it with resources. I wish Coach Chelle the very best in the job.”
He is the third coach to take charge of the Super Eagles in the last 10 months after Finidi George, and Augustine Eguavoen.
Chelle boasts of a career record of 67 wins, 40 draws, and 41 losses, resulting in a win percentage of 45.27%.
His highest achievement as a national team coach is taking the Malian national team to the quarter-finals of the AFCON in 2023.
Chelle will be paid $50,000 per month, while his two assistants will receive $5,000 per month.
He is expected to take charge of his first competitive Super Eagles match against Rwanda in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers in March.
