“This is our best?” – fans react to Eric Chelle’s appointment as Super Eagles head coach
The appointment of Eric Chelle as the new head coach of the Super Eagles has sparked mixed reactions from fans, with many questioning the Nigeria Football Federation’s (NFF) decision.
While the 47-year-old boasts a solid managerial résumé, some fans believe he may not be the right fit for Nigeria’s star-studded national team.
Social media, particularly X (formerly Twitter), has been abuzz since the announcement.
One fan expressed skepticism, stating: “For the calibre of the present Super Eagles players, I don’t think this man is the right choice! Of all the options available out there, this is our best?”
New Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle – Getty image
Another fan mocked the decision, referencing an incident during the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), where Chelle was doused with water after his team – Mali was knocked out of the competition by hosts Ivory Coast.
“No be this man them pour water for head during AFCON omo make una dey carry ice block waka cos he go need am aje.”
Criticism was also aimed at the timing of the announcement. A frustrated user commented: “Just like the presidential election results, you guys had to announce this f**lure at midnight.”
Others took a more humorous approach, with one stating: “What’s this u guys are doing na? No be this same guy wey Dem pour water for him head for the last AFCON? Thank God Ghana didn’t qualify, na to leave banter for South Africa.”
Despite the backlash, a few fans extended a warm welcome to Chelle, with one simply writing: “Welcome.”
Chelle’s appointment was reportedly recommended by the NFF’s Technical and Development Sub-Committee on January 2, 2025, and approved by the Executive Committee five days later.
