Eric Chelle confirms Super Eagles appointment, reveals resumption date
Malian coach Eric Chelle has confirmed his acceptance of the role as head coach of the Super Eagles of Nigeria.
The 47-year-old describes it as an opportunity he could not refuse.
Recall the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) appointed Chelle last week to succeed interim manager Augustine Eguavoen, who secured Nigeria’s qualification for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations with two matches to spare.
Chelle, who recently resigned from his role at Algerian club Mouloudia Oran (MC Oran), is scheduled to arrive in Nigeria on Monday.
Eric Chelle – Getty image
His decision to step down came after guiding Oran to the round of sixteen in the Coupe Nationale with a win over Union Sportive de Sétif.
Speaking to reporters in Algeria, Chelle highlighted the prestige of the Super Eagles as a key factor in his decision.
“It was my last match with MCO. On Monday, I will be in Nigeria,” he said. “The club officials wanted me to stay, but you can’t refuse an opportunity to manage the best team in Africa and one of the best in the world.”
Chelle expressed gratitude to the Algerian club and fans for their support during his tenure.
“I thank the Algerians, the Oran public, my management, staff and players for putting me in the best conditions,” he added.
