Super Eagles media officer debunks rumours of Eric Chelle dumping Nigeria for Morocco

Super Eagles Media Officer Promise Efoghe has dismissed reports suggesting that Eric Chelle is set to depart Nigeria to take over the Moroccan national team job, Soccernet.ng reports.

​Chelle has been a subject of intense speculation since the conclusion of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

Although he guided Nigeria to a third-place finish, many fans and pundits believe the squad had the quality to win the tournament outright due to their beautiful style of play.

​Over the last two months, Chelle has been linked with coaching vacancies in Algeria, Tunisia, and Angola.

He was even rumored to be a candidate for the Marseille job following Roberto De Zerbi’s sacking in February. These rumors intensified after the Franco-Malian tactician switched agents, though no move materialized.

​Recent reports had suggested that Chelle was closing in on the vacant Morocco post. The Atlas Lions parted ways with Walid Regragui last week and are currently searching for a successor to lead them into the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Given Morocco's historic semifinal run at the 2022 Mundial, the federation is eager to appoint a coach capable of replicating or exceeding that success.

Morocco technically sacked their coach, Walid Regragui.

Walid got to the 2022 FIFA World Cup semi-final, failed at the 2023 AFCON, and finished with Silver at the 2025 AFCON. Excellent results.

But guess what? The Moroccan FA wanted more.

Nigeria downgraded from Silver medal…

— Adepoju Tobi Samuel (@OgaNlaMedia) March 6, 2026

However, fresh updates indicate that Chelle is not currently on their shortlist.

​Eric Chelle to Morocco Rumors “Fake”

​On Monday afternoon, the Super Eagles media officer officially debunked reports from sections of the media claiming Chelle was Morocco-bound, branding the stories as “fake.”

​Consequently, the former Mali boss will remain in his role as Nigeria’s head coach for the time being.

However, speculation regarding his future is unlikely to subside, particularly as he enters the final year of his contract with extension talks reportedly stalling.

​Chelle recently confirmed that a leaked list of his contract demands was accurate. Since that revelation, it remains unclear if the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has made any progress toward reaching a middle ground.

​As it stands, Chelle holds the upper hand in negotiations. His exciting brand of football has earned praise from pundits and legends alike, ensuring that should he leave Nigeria, he will not be short of suitors.

If the NFF fails to secure his long-term commitment soon, the narrative surrounding his potential departure will undoubtedly persist.