The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has officially named Eric Chelle as the new head coach of the national football team.
This decision follows the recommendation made by the NFF’s Technical and Development Sub-Committee during its meeting in Abuja on January 2, 2025, which was later approved by the NFF Executive Committee on January 7, 2025.
At 47 years old, Chelle brings a wealth of experience, having previously coached Mali’s senior national team. His coaching career also includes stints at clubs such as GS Consolat, FC Martigues, Boulogne, and MC Oran.
As a player, Chelle represented clubs including Martigues, Valenciennes, Lens, Istres, and Chamois Niortais. Under his guidance, Mali reached the quarterfinals of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Côte d’Ivoire, where they narrowly missed out on a semifinal spot after losing 2-1 in extra time to the eventual champions.
This appointment comes after Austine Eguavoen temporarily over the Super Eagles following Finidi George’s resignation due to poor results in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, including disappointing draws and losses to South Africa and Benin Republic.
Chelle’s role begins immediately, and his primary focus will be on leading Nigeria to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
