NFF to unveil Eric Chelle as Super Eagles coach on Monday

The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) is set to unveil Eric Chelle as the head coach of the Super Eagles.

The 47-year-old Franco-Malian coach, who was appointed on January 7, will be unveiled at the Moshood Abiola Stadium in Abuja alongside his assistants on Monday.

Chelle took over as substantive head coach of the nation’s men’s football team from Austin Eguavoen who has been leading in an acting capacity since the exit of Finidi George.

He was selected for the role on the recommendation of NFF’s technical and development committee.

In a statement on Sunday, Ibrahim Gusau, president of the NFF, said Chelle, who led Mali to the quarter-finals of the 2023 African Cup of Nations, will “bring new thinking to the quest for Nigeria to salvage her chances of participating in the 2026 World Cup”.

Gusau also appealed to Nigerians to join forces with the NFF to support Chelle towards the success of the Super Eagles.

“The Franco-Malian embodies the fresh energy, new thinking and positive attitude with which the Federation desire the Super Eagles to confront their remaining six matches in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign,” the statement reads.

“We appreciate the fact that Nigerians are very passionate about the game of football, and that is the reason for the different tones of reactions following the appointment of Coach Chelle.

“However, the NFF hereby appeals to Nigerians to come together and support him, as we believe he has the qualities to achieve success with the Super Eagles.

“The NFF will give him all the support that he needs to succeed in the job.”

Before taking on the task of reviving the country’s World Cup hopes, Chelle and his soon-to-be-named coaches will have the immediate mandate of leading the Super Eagles B team to the African Nations Championship in February.