NFF Appoints New Super Eagles Head Coach – Key Details Revealed

The Nigeria Football Federation, NFF, has confirmed Eric Chelle as the new head coach of the national team.

The appointment followed the recommendation of the NFF’s Technical and Development Sub-Committee during its meeting on January 2, 2025, in Abuja.

The recommendation was approved by the NFF Executive Committee on January 7, 2025.

The 47-year-old has previously worked as the head coach of Mali’s senior national team.

He has also managed teams like GS Consolat, FC Martigues, Boulogne, and MC Oran.

During his playing career, he represented Martigues, Valenciennes, Lens, Istres, and Chamois Niortais.

Chelle led Mali to the quarterfinals of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, AFCON, in Côte d’Ivoire. They came very close to qualifying for the semi-finals, losing 2-1 to the eventual champions after extra time.

Austine Eguavoen was put in charge of the Super Eagles after Finidi George resigned from the role, following a series of disappointing results in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, including a draw against South Africa and a loss to Benin Republic.

The departure of José Peseiro, who had guided the team to a commendable performance at the 2024 AFCON, left a void that the NFF struggled to fill.

Peseiro resigned due to unresolved tension with the federation and his decision not to renew his contract after a 20-month stint.

His departure reignited debates about the NFF’s ability to attract and retain top-tier coaching talent.

Following Peseiro’s exit, the NFF initially considered local candidates, with notable names such as Finidi George and Emmanuel Amunike emerging as front-runners.

Finidi was briefly appointed but resigned after three months, citing challenges with the federation’s organisational structure.

The challenges ahead are immense.

The Super Eagles currently sit in a precarious position in their World Cup qualifying group, and expectations are high for the team to perform at the highest level.

Chelle will also be tasked with restoring stability to a team that has endured several managerial changes in recent years.

His experience with Mali and his proven ability to manage diverse squads will be crucial as he navigates the pressures of Nigerian football.

The appointment of Éric Chelle signals a fresh start for the Super Eagles.

However, the NFF must address the systemic issues plaguing the team’s management for long-term success.

The coming months will be critical in determining whether this new chapter will lead to the stability and success Nigerian football fans have long desired.

Chelle’s appointment takes effect effective immediately and he will be tasked with qualifying Nigeria for the 2026 FIFA World Cup finals.