The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has appointed Éric Chelle as the new head coach of the Super Eagles.
The decision was made after the NFF Technical and Development Sub-Committee recommended Chelle for the position, which was subsequently endorsed by the NFF Executive Committee.
Chelle, a former coach of the Mali national team, has a wealth of experience in African football. He led Mali to the quarterfinals of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, where they narrowly lost to hosts Cote d’Ivoire. Chelle left his position as Mali coach in June 2024.
The 47-year-old French-Malian coach has also managed several clubs in France, including GS Consolat, FC Martigues, and Boulogne. As a player, Chelle featured for several French clubs, including Martigues, Valenciennes, and Lens.
Chelle will replace Jose Peseiro, who was replaced by interim boss Finidi George after leading the team to the final of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations.
Chelle’s appointment is with immediate effect, and he will be tasked with guiding the Super Eagles to qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. His first major challenge will come in March when the Super Eagles play their next round of World Cup qualifiers.
