Éric Chelle vows to bring attacking mentality to Super Eagles

Éric Chelle, the newly appointed Head Coach of the Super Eagles, has pledged to instill an attacking mindset in Nigeria’s national football team.

Chelle made the statement during his official unveiling at a colorful ceremony held at the Media Conference Room of the Moshood Abiola National Stadium in Abuja on Monday.

The former Mali international, who earned five caps during his playing career with clubs such as FC Martigues, Valenciennes, Lens, Istres, and Chamois Niortais, expressed excitement about taking on the role.

“I want to thank my agent, the NFF, the NSC, and all Nigerians for this big opportunity,” Chelle said. “Coaching the Super Eagles is an amazing job; I do not take this appointment for granted. I am elated and will do my utmost best.”

Chelle emphasized his focus on an attacking style of play, saying, “Football is about scoring goals, so I favour an attacking style.” He acknowledged the high expectations placed on the team and committed to working diligently with his assistants to qualify the Super Eagles for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Ibrahim Gusau, President of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), called on Nigerians to rally behind the new coach, promising that the federation would provide the necessary support for Chelle’s success. Gusau expressed confidence in Chelle’s approach and described him as having the right spirit to lead the team.

“I see in the new Head Coach the right spirit and the right attitude, and I have faith that he will take the Super Eagles to the next level,” Gusau said. “Coach Chelle sees this job as his dream job, and that motivation is huge.”

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Chelle’s contract with the NFF is a two-year deal with the option of a third year, contingent upon qualifying for the 2026 World Cup. He will work with a team of three assistants, alongside the existing coaching staff, to enhance the Super Eagles’ brand.

In the meantime, Chelle will join the Super Eagles B team in Ikenne as they prepare for the upcoming African Nations Championship (CHAN), taking on a supervisory role for the tournament.

Shehu Dikko, Chairman of the National Sports Commission (NSC), expressed the government’s full support for Chelle, stating that the task of qualifying for the World Cup is a collective effort. Dikko reiterated that the government would provide resources to ensure the success of the team but emphasized that the NFF would remain in charge of the team’s management.

The unveiling event was attended by notable figures, including Anthony Adeboye, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Grassroots Sports Development, Sharif Inuwa, Chairman of the NFF Technical & Development Committee, and other NFF officials.