Mixed reactions trail Chelle’s appointment as Super Eagles coach

Some ex-internationals have criticized the Nigeria Football Federation’s (NFF) decision to appoint Éric Chelle, a former Mali coach, as the Head Coach of the Super Eagles. The 47-year-old’s appointment, announced on Tuesday, has sparked concerns over his suitability for the role. 

Kadiri Ikhana, an ex-international and former Super Falcons coach, expressed disappointment, arguing that homegrown coaches deserve more opportunities. He emphasized that Chelle’s track record does not surpass those of Nigerian coaches.

“Eric Chelle is not better than our local coaches. If we don’t give them chances to grow, how will they develop? Many of our coaches have proven themselves locally and internationally, yet they’re ignored,” Ikhana said, citing his experience leading Enyimba to an African Champions League title in 2003. 

Similarly, Harrison Jalla, Chairman of the Professional Football Association of Nigeria Task Force, questioned the rationale behind the decision. He noted Chelle’s underwhelming tenure as Mali’s coach, including poor performances at the Africa Cup of Nations and World Cup qualifiers. 

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Similarly, the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) also condemned the appointment, describing it as a “slap on the country.”

In a statement, NANS urged the NFF to either appoint a Nigerian coach or hire a more accomplished tactician from Europe. 

NANS and the ex-internationals argue that the NFF should prioritize developing local coaches rather than settling for a coach with limited success, doubting Chelle’s ability to lead Nigeria to the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

“We seriously doubt if Chelle can secure a spot at the 2026 FIFA World Cup finals, a major mandate given to him by the NFF. We call on the football federation to reconsider this appointment and give the country a Super Eagles coach that will rekindle the country’s glory in the game of soccer, both in Africa and at the global stage,” the statement said.