Eric Chelle Appointed New Super Eagles Coach

Abuja, Nigeria –The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has officially appointed Mr. Éric Sékou Chelle as the new Head Coach of the Super Eagles.

The appointment, announced today, follows the recommendation of the NFF Technical and Development Sub-Committee, endorsed by the Executive Committee at a meeting held on Thursday, January 2nd.

Chelle, 47, brings a wealth of experience to the role. A former Mali international with five caps for the Aiglons, he boasts an impressive coaching career encompassing spells at several French clubs including GS Consolat, FC Martigues, Boulogne, and MC Oran.

He most recently served as Head Coach of the Mali national team since 2022.

His tenure with the Aiglons saw Mali reach the quarter-finals of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations in Côte d’Ivoire, where they narrowly lost 2-1 after extra time to the eventual champions.

This near-miss in the tournament highlights Chelle’s tactical acumen and ability to lead a team to the highest level of African football.

Chelle’s playing career saw him feature for several French clubs including Martigues, Valenciennes, Lens, Istres and Chamois Niortais.

The appointment is effective immediately, placing Chelle at the helm as the Super Eagles prepare for crucial World Cup qualifiers.

The next two matches, Matchdays 5 & 6, are scheduled for March, presenting an immediate challenge for the new coach to secure a place for Nigeria in the 2026 FIFA World Cup finals.

The NFF will be looking to Chelle to steer the Super Eagles to victory and restore the team’s position on the world stage.