“Impossible is nothing” – What Alloy Agu said about new Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle

1994 Africa Cup of Nations winner Alloy Agu has shared his thoughts on the appointment of Malian tactician Eric Chelle as the new head coach of the Super Eagles, Soccernet.ng reports.

Chelle was unveiled this week as the 37th head coach and the first non-Nigerian African to manage the Nigerian national team. The ceremony took place in Abuja, courtesy of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF).

New Super Eagles head coach, Eric Chelle. Photo Credit: NFFNew Super Eagles head coach, Eric Chelle. Photo Credit: NFF
New Super Eagles head coach, Eric Chelle. Photo Credit: NFF

The 47-year-old coach has been tasked with leading Nigeria to qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, despite the Super Eagles’ poor start to their qualifying campaign.

Get Our Sports News First – Join Our WhatsApp Channel Now!

While Chelle’s appointment has drawn criticism from some quarters, Agu expressed optimism about the decision, emphasizing the importance of support from the NFF, the players, and the coaching staff to ensure Chelle’s success.

Eric Chelle meeting with Super Eagles B coaches in Ikenne, Ogun State. Photo Credit X

Speaking to Complete Sports, Agu said:

“I am delighted that the NFF has appointed a new coach in Eric Chelle to manage the Super Eagles. Many may doubt Chelle, but the NFF must have their reasons for his appointment, and I believe he will succeed with the senior national team if given the free hand to operate.

“Impossible is nothing when it comes to the 2026 World Cup qualifiers. With the right attitude from the players and coaches, I feel very optimistic that Nigeria will qualify for the World Cup.

“We just need to show him support and provide information where necessary; that will help the team improve.”

Nigeria currently trail Rwanda, South Africa, Benin, and Lesotho in their qualifying group, with only the group winners guaranteed a ticket to the Mundial.

ABUJA, NIGERIA – MARCH 24: Wifred Ndidi and Zaidu Sanusi of during the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers between Nigeria and Guinea Bissau at Abuja Stadium on March 24, 2023 in Abuja, Nigeria. Photo by IMAGO

The next round of qualifiers will take place in March, with the Super Eagles set to face Rwanda in Kigali and Zimbabwe in Uyo, Nigeria.

Wins in both fixtures could revive Nigeria’s qualification hopes and put them back on course for the tournament, which will be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

This post was last modified on January 16, 2025 7:17 pm

Imhonlamhen Eronmhonsele

Imhonlamhen Eronmhonsele turns into a ball of passion when writing about Nigerian football and its talents, whether rising stars or established legends, locally and abroad. From the deepest corners of the Middle East, to the green fields of the Americas, to the celebrated grounds in Europe, and the rich soils of Africa, Imhons is more than glad, usually with a glass of a tasty drink nearby, to capture the essence of the game, by connecting the dots between culture, identity, and football.

Share
Published by
Imhonlamhen Eronmhonsele

Recent Posts

Super Eagles call-up? Nathan Tella breaks silence on Chelle’s selection

Super Eagles winger Nathan Tella has expressed his desire to return to the Nigerian national… Read More

4 minutes ago

Can Akpom save Van Nistelrooy’s job? Leicester close in on Super Eagles-eligible striker

Leicester City are edging closer to securing the signing of Super Eagles-eligible striker Chuba Akpom… Read More

3 hours ago

Napoli reject first official bid for Galatasaray’s Victor Osimhen amid Arsenal and Man United link

Napoli have turned down an initial €65 million bid from Galatasaray for Victor Osimhen, with… Read More

4 hours ago

Sevilla FC: Nigerian prospect Ola Great receives trial invitation from La Liga club

Nigerian footballer Ola Great has received an official trial invitation from the Spanish La Liga… Read More

5 hours ago

Former Super Eagles midfielder reveals what Nigeria need to win AFCON 2025

Former Super Eagles midfielder, Sylvanus Okpala, has revealed what the Nigerian team need to emerge… Read More

10 hours ago