Official: Éric Chelle takes charge of Super Eagles as head coach

Former Lens defender, Éric Sékou Chelle, has been unveiled as the new Head Coach of the Super Eagles, marking the start of a fresh era for Nigeria’s senior men’s national football team, Soccernet.ng reports.

Earlier reports suggest that the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) had been in advanced talks with the Malian coach for the Super Eagles job.

Sources indicate that the NFF Technical Director and Executive Committee had reached a consensus on his appointment months ago, while Chelle’s representative was reportedly in Abuja to iron out the final details of his contract.

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Meanwhile, this announcement comes after the NFF gave its final stamp of approval to the recommendation made by its Technical and Development Sub-Committee.

Chelle, who previously coached Mali and boasts a wealth of managerial experience in both club and international football, will now lead the Super Eagles in their quest for a 2026 FIFA World Cup ticket.

The 47-year-old, who also enjoyed a distinguished playing career in French football, now faces the immediate challenge of preparing the Super Eagles for their crucial March fixtures.

 

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With Nigeria sitting at a pivotal point in the World Cup qualifiers, Chelle has a big fish to fry to secure a World Cup ticket for Nigeria as they face table toppers, Rwanda, as well as Southern African side, Zimbabwe.

More details about Chelle’s immediate plans, contract terms, and backroom staff, are expected in the coming days.