“I could strike that balance” – Former LA Galaxy star eyes Super Eagles job amid pressure on Eric Chelle

Former LA Galaxy defender, Michael Nsien, has once again expressed his desire to manage the Super Eagles, Soccernet.ng reports. 

He insisted that his understanding of Nigerian football and international coaching experience could help restore balance and structure to the team.

Nsien, whose parents are Nigerian, has long been vocal about his ambition to contribute to the development of the Nigerian football team.

Nsien: What The Ex-LA Galaxy Defender Said

Speaking recently about his connection to Nigeria, the 44-year-old coach emphasized that a good structure is what the national team needs to thrive.

“With Nigeria, I imagine there will always be a connection because I’m a proud Nigerian descendant,” Nsien said to RG. “I believe I could help provide what’s been missing in terms of strong leadership and structure. With my understanding of what Nigeria is and what it should be, I believe I could strike that balance.”

This comment comes at a time when Eric Chelle faces mounting scrutiny from the Nigerian football fans despite recently receiving backing from the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) to continue as Super Eagles coach.

The NFF confirmed their faith in Chelle following Nigeria’s qualification for the World Cup play-offs, where they are set to face Gabon before a potential final clash against either DR Congo or Cameroon.

Watch as NFF President Backs Super Eagles Coach Eric Chelle:

NFF President, Ibrahim Gusau speaks about Eric Chelle, the zeal of the players & how Nigeria is preparing for the playoffs in November. pic.twitter.com/IDMC6rOmOY

— POOJA!!! (@PoojaMedia) October 18, 2025

Nsien Speaks On Super Eagles' Challenges

In an earlier chat with Daily Trust, the Tulsa-born coach noted that Nigeria’s challenges go beyond talent identification, pointing to the need for consistency.

“We have the talents but it has been underperforming. When I look at the players and where they come from, I want to help build the standard from the ground floor,” he said.

Similarly, in an earlier report by Soccernet.ng, Nsien added:

“I know where we are at in Nigerian football, and I know the gap that exists. I can bridge the gap and help us reach the level that we should be at in world football.”

Nsien’s renewed expression of interest could spark discussions within the NFF. But until then, it is more than likely to see Chelle see to the end of his contract with the Nigerian football body—which is after AFCON.