Eric Chelle reveals application process behind Super Eagles appointment

By Monsurah Olatunji

Newly appointed Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has dismissed speculation surrounding his appointment, clarifying that he secured the role through a formal application process, not personal connections.

Chelle, a former Mali international, was named head coach of Nigeria’s senior national team by the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), succeeding Augustine Eguavoen, who led the team to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) on an interim basis.

His appointment surprised many fans and observers, particularly amid reports linking the NFF with more high-profile European coaches such as former Sweden manager Janne Andersson and ex-Bayer Leverkusen boss Bruno Labbadia.

In an interview with CANAL+ SPORT Afrique, the 47-year-old French-born tactician emphasized transparency in the recruitment process.

“When I left the Malian team, there was a call for applications from the NFF, from the Nigerian Federation, and so I applied like any other coach,” Chelle explained.

“I was invited to a coaches’ conference where I presented my project, my vision, and philosophy. It took longer than expected, so I left for Rouen. But then, this opportunity came, and I returned—for this great project.”

Chelle also noted that the NFF’s resolve during the final negotiation stages influenced his decision to accept the job.

“In the final moments of negotiation, you felt their determination, and that made me come,” he added.

“We had been in discussions for some time. It eventually accelerated very quickly—maybe that’s why it caused a buzz—but again, I was aligned with what I wanted to do.”

Chelle previously led Mali to the quarterfinals of the 2023 AFCON, his only major tournament in charge. His coaching career began in 2014 as an assistant at GS Consolat, followed by head coaching roles at Martigues and Boulogne.

Since taking over Nigeria, Chelle has earned four points in his first two matches: a 2–0 win over Rwanda and a 1–1 draw with Zimbabwe in the ongoing 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.