“I’ll come with a lot of humility” — Eric Chelle on managing Super Eagles’ big names

By Monsurah Olatunji

Newly appointed Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has outlined his approach to managing Nigeria’s star-studded squad as they prepare for the crucial 2026 World Cup qualifiers.

Chelle, who took over from interim coach Augustine Eguavoen following Nigeria’s qualification for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, faces the task of leading a team full of top-tier European-based players.

Despite his coaching experience with clubs such as GS Consolat, FC Martigues, Boulogne, and MC Oran, Chelle’s man-management and experience have been questioned by some.

However, the 47-year-old is confident that his approach will help foster unity and stability within the team.

Speaking to RFI via Matin Libre, Chelle expressed optimism about managing the “big boys” of Nigerian football as they aim for World Cup qualification.

“Already, there are a lot of people who say that I don’t have much experience. But ultimately, I do have experience,” Chelle said.

“I ended my career in 2014 and I’ve been coaching since that year. I coached a team, let’s say, from West Africa not long ago. I coached a team in Algeria, the Mouloudia Club d’Oran. So, I’m starting to get to know African football well.”

Chelle emphasized his readiness to manage the Super Eagles, stating that his football philosophy aligns well with the squad’s strengths.

“Today, I feel ready to lead this great team with great players. So, I’m part of the progression process; the players will help me progress, and I will help them progress, too, because I have a vision of football that will really fit well with this team.”

The new head coach stressed the importance of humility and dialogue in managing the squad.

“They are great players, great men. I will come with a lot of humility, but once again, I have a lot of certainties. It is a dialogue that we will have to establish between us.”

Chelle will take charge of the Super Eagles for their World Cup qualifying matches against Rwanda and Zimbabwe in March 2025, where he will aim to guide the team towards securing their place at the tournament.