Super Eagles Coach Eric Chelle Submits Provisional Squad for Four-Nation Tournament
Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has reportedly submitted his provisional squad list to the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) ahead of the upcoming four-nation tournament in Jordan. This development comes as the three-time Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) winners prepare for crucial international friendlies while awaiting FIFA's verdict on their protest against DR Congo.
Chelle's Contract Negotiations and Demands
The Franco-Mali tactician, who led Nigeria to a bronze medal at the 2025 AFCON in Morocco, is currently under consideration for contract renewal. Chelle's successful campaign, which included a victory over Egypt in the third-place match at Stade Mohammed V in Casablanca, has strengthened his position in negotiations with the football federation.
According to reports, Chelle has made several significant demands during contract discussions:
- An increase in monthly salary from $50,000 to $130,000
- Complete non-interference from the NFF in player selection
- A private SUV with chauffeur and security detail
- A secure residence with uninterrupted electricity supply
- A fully furnished office equipped with modern analysis tools
- The right to choose international friendly opponents
- Structured camping programs for optimal team preparation
The 48-year-old former MC Oran manager has also outlined plans to initiate youth development programs and requested that the NFF issue formal working contracts for his entire backroom staff.
Squad Submission and Player Returns
Sources indicate that Chelle has been mandated to submit his final squad before the end of this week. The coach has received a significant boost with the return of several key players, including Ola Aina, Benjamin Fredrick, Felix Agu, and Cyril Dessers, who are expected to feature prominently in the provisional list.
Nigeria's participation in the tournament remains contingent on the outcome of their protest against DR Congo. Should the Super Eagles win their case, they would advance to the intercontinental playoffs with an opportunity to secure a spot at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Tournament Details and Opposition
The four-nation tournament will see Nigeria face Jordan in an international friendly in Amman on March 31. According to reports from Afrik-Foot, the NFF believes this match will provide valuable match fitness and tactical testing for the squad. Jordan will use the fixture as part of their preparation for the 2026 tournament.
Additionally, the Super Eagles are scheduled to take on Iran at the 17,000-capacity Amman International Stadium on March 27. These matches represent crucial preparation opportunities as Nigeria seeks to rebuild following their World Cup qualification disappointment.
World Cup Qualification Background
Nigeria initially missed out on automatic qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup after finishing second in CAF Qualification Group C behind South Africa's Bafana Bafana. The Super Eagles were handed a lifeline through the African playoffs, where they defeated Gabon 4-1 in the semi-final before suffering a heartbreaking 4-3 penalty shootout loss to DR Congo in the final.
Warning from Nigerian Football Legend
Former Nigerian international Tijani Babangida, a member of the 1994 AFCON-winning squad, has cautioned Eric Chelle to avoid repeating mistakes that cost Nigeria a World Cup ticket. Babangida highlighted that overdependence on star striker Victor Osimhen proved detrimental to the team, with the Super Eagles becoming disorganized following his injury during crucial matches.
The four-nation tournament in Jordan represents an important opportunity for Chelle to implement tactical adjustments and test squad depth as Nigeria continues its football development program under his leadership.
