National Teams
NFF dismisses coaching overhaul rumours, backs Chelle ahead of World Cup qualifiers
By Dayo Awoniyi
The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has categorically denied media reports suggesting a shake-up in the Super Eagles’ technical crew, describing the claims as “false, baseless, and misleading.”
Reports had circulated earlier this week alleging that the federation was considering replacing current head coach Eric Chelle with a new setup involving former Super Eagles handler Austin Eguavoen and ex-Flying Eagles coach Ladan Bosso.
However, in a firm rebuttal on Wednesday, NFF General Secretary Dr. Mohammed Sanusi stated that no such discussions had taken place within the organization.
“It’s a lie. There is nothing like that,” Sanusi said.
“As far as I know, the NFF has not discussed anything of the sort. Neither the Technical Committee nor the Technical Department has proposed such an idea. I don’t know where this fake news is coming from.”
Also reacting, Ladan Bosso, currently managing Barau FC, said he had not been contacted about any role with the national team.
“No, no one has contacted me about the Super Eagles job,” Bosso stated. “I’m hearing this from you for the first time. If anything like that were true, I believe I would have been approached.”
Chelle, who was appointed earlier this year, continues to lead the Super Eagles as they pursue qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Nigeria is set to face Lesotho in Polokwane, South Africa, on Friday before returning to Uyo to host Benin Republic in their final Group C qualifier.
The Super Eagles currently sit third in the group with 11 points from eight matches, three behind joint leaders South Africa and Benin.
