NFF Confident in Chelle As The New Super Eagles Coach Unveils Ambitious Vision for His Boyhood Team
In a pivotal move to rejuvenate Nigeria’s football aspirations, the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has appointed Eric Chelle as the new head coach of the Super Eagles.
The 47-year-old former Mali international was officially unveiled on Monday at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium in Abuja, marking the beginning of a new chapter for the national team.
NFF President’s Optimism
NFF President Ibrahim Gusau expressed strong confidence in Chelle’s appointment, emphasizing the coach’s deep understanding of African football dynamics. Gusau stated, “We are ready to give him all the support that he needs to execute his job without hitches, and I know we will get the results.”
Chelle’s Contract Details and Expectations
Chelle has been awarded a two-year contract, with an option for a one-year extension contingent upon securing Nigeria’s qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the USA, Canada, and Mexico.
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This objective is particularly pressing, given the Super Eagles’ current standing in the qualifiers. After four matches, Nigeria sits fifth in Group C with three points, necessitating a significant turnaround in the upcoming fixtures against Rwanda on March 17 and Zimbabwe on March 24.
Chelle’s Vision and Commitment
Upon his unveiling, Chelle conveyed his ambition to elevate Nigerian football to global prominence. He remarked, “From this very moment, I am already hard at work. My goal is clear: to restore the Super Eagles to the pinnacle of world football, where they truly belong.” Chelle also highlighted his preference for an attacking style of play, aiming to leverage Nigeria’s rich pool of offensive talent.
Backroom Staff
Accompanying Chelle is a team of seasoned professionals poised to bolster the Super Eagles’ technical capabilities. His backroom staff includes:
Hadi Taboubi: First Assistant Coach
Thomas Gornourec: Fitness Trainer
Jean Daniel Padovani: Goalkeeper Trainer
This ensemble is expected to bring a wealth of experience and a fresh perspective to the team’s preparations and strategies.
Looking Ahead
Chelle’s immediate focus will be on reversing Nigeria’s fortunes in the World Cup qualifiers. His track record, notably leading Mali to the quarter-finals of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, underscores his capability to navigate high-stakes competitions. As the Super Eagles gear up for their crucial matches in March, the nation watches with anticipation, hopeful that Chelle’s leadership will usher in a new era of success for Nigerian football.
