In a significant development for Nigerian football, the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has officially appointed Éric Sékou Chelle as the new Head Coach of the Super Eagles.
The decision was made following the endorsement of the NFF Executive Committee, who approved the recommendation from the Technical and Development Sub-Committee during a meeting held in Abuja on Thursday, 2nd January 2025.
The committee’s recommendation was formally ratified by the Executive Committee on Tuesday, 7th January.
Chelle, a former international player with Mali, brings a wealth of experience to the role, having previously managed the Mali national team.
He coached Mali to the brink of a semi-final spot at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations in Côte d’Ivoire, where his team narrowly lost to the hosts, Côte d’Ivoire, 2-1 after extra time.
Under his leadership, Mali showed resilience, holding a one-goal lead until the final moments of regulation time.
At 47, Chelle’s coaching career spans various clubs, including GS Consolat, FC Martigues, Boulogne, and MC Oran, with his most recent managerial role being with the Aiglons of Mali, whom he has led since 2022.
His playing career saw him feature for clubs like Martigues, Valenciennes, Lens, Istres, and Chamois Niortais in France, earning five caps for the Malian national team.
Chelle’s appointment is effective immediately, and his primary objective will be to steer the Super Eagles toward qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
With the next round of qualifiers (Matchdays 5 & 6) set to take place in March, Chelle’s leadership will be critical as the Super Eagles aim to secure a spot in the global tournament.
The NFF’s decision to bring in Chelle is seen as a strategic move to revitalize the Super Eagles and strengthen their chances on the continental and global stage.
Fans are eager to see how his wealth of experience and tactical acumen will translate into results for Nigeria’s most prestigious football team.