Super Eagles Coach Eric Chelle Defends Salary Increase Demand Amid NFF Review
Super Eagles head coach, Eric Chelle, has publicly justified his request for a significant salary increase, stating it is aimed at enhancing his working conditions and supporting his technical staff. The Franco-Malian manager firmly dismissed allegations that he is threatening to resign from his position with the Nigerian national team.
Details of the Salary and Contract Negotiations
In a recently leaked document submitted to the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), Chelle outlined his terms, which include a proposed monthly salary increase from $50,000 to $130,000. This adjustment is intended to cover not only his own compensation but also that of his assistants, addressing a critical aspect of team management in African football contexts.
Chelle emphasized, "When you talk about $130,000, first of all it’s not euros, it’s dollars. And what people don’t know is that in Africa, with the national teams I’ve worked with, I have to pay my technical staff myself. So all those people have to be paid — and those requests are simply to ensure I have the right conditions to do my job."
Commitment to Super Eagles Amid Marseille Links
Following Nigeria’s third-place finish at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, Chelle was linked with French club Olympique Marseille. However, he did not secure the position, and the NFF has indicated that his 19 demands are under review and subject to approval by its board.
Speaking on the Histoires de Foot Podcast, Chelle reaffirmed his dedication to the Super Eagles, denying any ultimatums or direct involvement in the Marseille speculation. "I have never gone to Nigeria to say I was going to leave for Marseille or to renegotiate everything. There is no interview or statement where I said I would go to Marseille or that I was threatening anyone," he stated.
He added, "At the moment we’re speaking, of course, I am still the coach of Nigeria. I still have one year left on my contract. In fact, I was in a meeting via video with my technical staff to work on the squad list for the March matches. So yes, I am still the coach of Nigeria."
Comprehensive List of Demands for Improved Conditions
Chelle’s reported 19 demands extend beyond salary, focusing on creating an optimal environment for team success. Key requests include:
- A private SUV with a chauffeur and security detail for enhanced mobility and safety.
- Accommodation in a well-secured area with uninterrupted power supply to ensure stability.
- A furnished office equipped with a projector for detailed tactical analysis and planning.
- Flight tickets for his wife and two children to support family integration.
- Provision of equipment aligned with his technical specifications for training and matches.
- Influence in selecting friendly matches to better prepare the team for competitions.
- Autonomy in team selection to build a cohesive and competitive squad.
Additionally, Chelle seeks structured access to domestic league matches for scouting players across various age groups, including the U-23, U-20, and U-17 sides, to foster talent development. He also requests that his personal assistant be included in the bonus and allowance framework, ensuring comprehensive support.
Clarification on Marseille Contact and Agency Role
Chelle confirmed that his agency initiated contact with Olympique Marseille regarding the coaching vacancy, but he stressed his lack of direct involvement. "I signed with an agency in order to evolve and grow as a coach. My agents decided to approach certain clubs in Europe, particularly in France. At that time, OM was looking for a coach. My agency contacted the club to propose me. We didn’t do anything more than that. Shortlist or not, I had no contact," he explained.
He further noted, "After that, you should ask my agent if I was on a list or not. Since I’m from the region, I chat with a few friends who ask me if I’d like it. I am a supporter of OM and if someone asks me that, of course I would like it. But in no case did I ask for it to be communicated. With social networks, it just blew up."
The NFF’s review of Chelle’s demands is ongoing, with decisions expected to impact the Super Eagles' preparations for upcoming matches and tournaments.
