NFF President Provides Update on Eric Chelle's Future as Super Eagles Coach
Nigeria Football Federation President Ibrahim Gusau has offered the latest insights regarding the future of Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle following the team's performance at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations. The discussion comes after Chelle guided Nigeria to a bronze medal victory against Egypt in Morocco on January 17, 2026, sparking widespread debate about his continued role with the national team.
Contract Status and Extension Discussions
Eric Chelle currently has one year remaining on his two-year contract with the Super Eagles, which he signed upon accepting the coaching position on January 7, 2025. While the NFF has confirmed that Chelle will continue as head coach during this period, questions persist about whether his tenure will be extended beyond the current agreement.
Ibrahim Gusau emphasized the federation's approach to these discussions, stating that the NFF intends to allow Chelle to complete his existing contract before making any definitive decisions about his future. "We still have a one-year contract with Eric, and therefore, whatever interest anyone will show in him, it has to wait until his contract expires," Gusau explained in comments reported by Soccernet.
Public Opinion and Coaching Performance
Nigerian football fans remain divided regarding Chelle's future with the Super Eagles:
- Some supporters advocate for his immediate dismissal
- Others prefer he completes his current contract without extension
- A third group supports extending his tenure based on recent achievements
The Franco-Malian coach has demonstrated commitment to the Nigerian team by reportedly declining coaching offers from other African nations, including Tunisia and Angola. Tunisia's qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup made their interest particularly notable. Additionally, Chelle has been linked with the vacant managerial position at French club Olympique Marseille following Roberto de Zerbi's departure.
Long-term Vision and Coaching Aspirations
Gusau revealed that Chelle's expressed confidence in the Super Eagles' potential plays a significant role in the federation's consideration of his future. "He has so much belief in the Super Eagles, and he has every confidence that he can achieve all his dreams with the Super Eagles," the NFF president noted, adding that this mutual belief has been discussed extensively between both parties.
Beyond his current role, Eric Chelle has reportedly expressed ambitious career goals, including aspirations to become the first African coach to manage Spanish giants Real Madrid. His coaching background includes experience in French Ligue 1 and Algerian Ligue 1 before transitioning to international management with Mali and subsequently Nigeria.
The NFF president concluded by affirming Chelle's current status with the team: "And to us, as I have said, we believe in him. When the time comes, we definitely make Nigerians know the way forward. But Eric is part of the Super Eagles, and he continues to be part of the Super Eagles."
As discussions continue, the football community awaits further developments regarding whether Chelle's contract will be extended beyond its current term, potentially shaping the Super Eagles' trajectory in upcoming international competitions.
