The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has appointed Mr. Éric Sékou Chelle as the new Head Coach of the Super Eagles, Nigeria’s senior men national football team. This decision was made after the NFF Technical and Development Sub-Committee recommended Chelle’s appointment, which was subsequently endorsed by the NFF Executive Committee.
Chelle, a former coach of Mali’s senior men national team, brings a wealth of experience to the role. He has coached several clubs, including GS Consolat, FC Martigues, Boulogne, and MC Oran. As a player, Chelle won five caps for Mali and featured for several French clubs, including Martigues, Valenciennes, Lens, Istres, and Chamois Niortais.
Chelle’s appointment is with immediate effect, and he faces a significant challenge in guiding the Super Eagles to qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup finals. His first major test will come in March, when Nigeria plays its next round of matches (Matchdays 5 & 6). Chelle’s experience and expertise will be crucial in helping the team achieve its goal.
The NFF’s decision to appoint Chelle has been influenced by his impressive performance with Mali at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations finals in Cote d’Ivoire. Despite losing to the hosts in the quarter-finals, Chelle’s team showed great promise, and his tactical acumen was evident throughout the tournament.
