NFF Appoints Mali’s Éric Chelle as Super Eagles Head Coach

The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has appointed Éric Sékou Chelle as the new head coach of the Super Eagles.

According to reports, the decision was confirmed during a meeting of the NFF Executive Committee held in Abuja on January 7, 2025, following a recommendation from the Technical and Development Sub-Committee.

Chelle, 47, has previously served as head coach of Mali’s’ national team and several clubs, including GS Consolat, FC Martigues, Boulogne, and MC Oran.

Born in Côte d’Ivoire’ to a French father and a Malian mother, Chelle enjoyed a playing career in France, featuring for clubs such as Martigues, Valenciennes, Lens, Istres, and Chamois Niortais. Internationally, he represented Mali, earning five caps before retiring.

During his tenure as Mali’s’ head coach from 2022 to 2024, Chelle led the team to the quarter-finals of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Côte d’Ivoire’, narrowly missing out on a semi-final spot after a 2-1 extra-time defeat to the eventual champions.

Under his leadership, Mali posted an impressive record of 14 wins, five draws, and three losses.

It will be recalled that the Super Eagles” coaching position became vacant after Finidi George stepped down following a series of underwhelming results in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, including a draw against South Africa and a loss to the Benin Republic.

The NFF’s effort to bring in another coach led to the announcement of Bruno Labbadia, who turned down the appointment despite his announcement.

Chelle’s’ appointment is effective immediately, and his first challenge will be securing Nigeria’s qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The crucial Matchday five and six qualifiers are set for March.

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Oluwasegun Sanusi

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