January 24 2024: Eric Chelle Mali // during a African Cup of Nations Group E game, Namibia vs Mali, at Stade Laurent Pokou, San Pedro, Ivory Coast. Photo by IMAGO
New Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has arrived in England as he looks to introduce himself to Nigeria’s Premier League-based players and outline his vision ahead of the crucial 2026 World Cup qualifiers, Soccernet.ng understands.
According to ScoreNigeria, the Franco-Malian tactician is expected to hold discussions with several Nigerian internationals, including Fulham duo Alex Iwobi and Calvin Bassey, as well as Nottingham Forest’s Ola Aina and Taiwo Awoniyi.
He could also take the opportunity to check in on Southampton’s Paul Onuachu and Joe Aribo.
Chelle is reportedly accompanied on the trip by his assistant, Hedi Taboubi, with the agenda focused on preparing the players for Nigeria’s must-win qualifiers against Rwanda and Zimbabwe next month.
While in England, Chelle might also attempt to persuade some dual-nationality players to commit their international futures to Nigeria.
Chelsea’s Tosin Adarabioyo, Brighton’s Michael Kayode, and Arsenal’s teenage sensation Ethan Nwaneri are all eligible for the Super Eagles and could be long-term targets for the new boss.
There’s also a chance he could speak with Chelsea-owned Lesley Ugochukwu, who is yet to pledge his allegiance to either France or Nigeria.
Wilfred Ndidi, despite only recently returning from injury, may also take time to meet with Chelle to discuss the upcoming fixtures.
Nigeria’s qualification hopes are hanging in the balance. After four matches, the Super Eagles sit fifth in Group C with just three points, trailing leaders Rwanda by four. With only the top two securing a World Cup ticket, Chelle has made it clear that turning the team’s fortunes around is his top priority.
“As I’ve said before, my focus is on my players and March. We need to concentrate on the World Cup qualifiers first, and after that, in October, we can start thinking about AFCON. For now, we need to win two games in March,” Chelle stated after last week’s AFCON draw in Morocco.
Nigeria face Rwanda in Kigali on March 21 before returning to Uyo for the must-win clash against Zimbabwe four days later. Victory in both games is crucial if the Super Eagles are to keep their World Cup dream alive.
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