NFF Addresses Super Eagles Coach Eric Chelle's Contract Demands Amid Renewal Talks
The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has officially responded to the 19-point demands submitted by Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle for a contract renewal, following the leak of these requests to the media. The demands, which have sparked significant controversy, include a proposed monthly salary of $130,000 for Chelle and his coaching staff, a substantial increase from his current $55,000 per month under a contract set to expire in December 2026.
Background on Chelle's Tenure and Performance
Eric Chelle, a Franco-Malian manager, was appointed by the NFF on January 7, 2025, with a two-year contract aimed at revitalizing Nigeria's 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign. However, the Super Eagles' hopes were dashed after a penalty shootout loss to DR Congo in the African playoff final, ending their World Cup qualification bid. Despite calls for his dismissal, the NFF retained Chelle to lead the team at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, where Nigeria secured a bronze medal by defeating Egypt 4-2 on penalties after a semi-final loss to host nation Morocco. This outcome fell short of the minimum target of reaching the final, achieved in 2023, leading to renewed pressure for his removal.
Details of the Leaked Demands and NFF's Response
The leaked 19-point proposal from Chelle outlines conditions for accepting a new contract, with the $130,000 monthly salary demand drawing particular scrutiny from Nigerian fans and media. In response, NFF General Secretary Dr. Mohammed Sanusi clarified that many of Chelle's demands, such as accommodation and transportation within Nigeria, are already covered in his existing contract. "Chelle has accommodation, a car and a driver," Sanusi stated, emphasizing that the federation is taking a measured approach given Chelle's remaining year on his current deal.
An NFF source, speaking to Guardian NG, noted that the demands are subject to review by the technical committee before board approval, highlighting that renewal discussions are not urgent. "Let us not forget that Chelle still has one year left on his current contract. These are fresh demands to be considered for renewal, which remains subject to debate, especially with these terms," the source explained. Even if the NFF opts not to engage with the proposal, Chelle is expected to fulfill his contractual obligations through December 2026.
Future Implications and Upcoming Events
Amid the ongoing contract talks, the NFF has confirmed that Nigeria will participate in a four-nation tournament during the March international break, facing Jordan, Iran, and Costa Rica. An NFF insider previously indicated that the federation is in no rush to address Chelle's demands, describing nothing in the proposal as outrageous and reiterating the focus on his current contract term. This situation underscores the broader challenges in Nigerian football management, balancing performance expectations with financial constraints and public sentiment.
