Former Super Eagles Defender Slams Eric Chelle's Financial Demands, Calls for Local Replacement
A former Super Eagles star has launched a scathing critique of the reported financial demands made by Nigeria's national team coach, Eric Chelle, insisting that a bronze medal at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations does not justify heavy spending on a foreign coach. The ex-international is urging Nigerian authorities to consider appointing a former player as the new handler of the team if Chelle is disengaged.
Chelle's Contract Demands and Performance Under Scrutiny
Eric Chelle, who was appointed in January 2025 with the mandate to qualify Nigeria for the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the USA, Canada, and Mexico, allegedly requested a salary increase from $50,000 to $130,000 as part of his 19-point demand for contract renewal. The former Mali coach narrowly missed out on World Cup qualification, finishing second behind South Africa in the qualifiers and losing to the DR Congo Leopards in the final playoffs in Morocco last November.
Despite leading the Super Eagles to win the 2025 Unity Cup at G Tech Community in Brentford, Chelle's terms have been labeled as "ridiculous" by critics. Former Super Eagles defender Edema Fuludu has been particularly vocal, calling on the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) to look inward for a replacement.
Fuludu's Strong Stance on Local Coaching Talent
Edema Fuludu, a 55-year-old former BCC Lions and Altay player, emphasized that local coaches have historically delivered major successes for Nigeria, including winning the Africa Cup of Nations. He argued that Chelle's achievements do not warrant such high financial demands, stating, "Nigerians are celebrating him for bringing us a bronze medal, but what exactly did he win? Did he win the AFCON for us? If he had won the AFCON and requested $200,000, we would gladly give it to him."
Fuludu further explained that the decision should rest with the National Sports Commission (NSC) and NFF, urging them to take a firm stance. He said, "It's a contract, an offer and acceptance. You either accept it or you don't. It's not for the public to debate. It is the responsibility of the NSC and NFF to take a decision and announce the outcome."
Advocacy for Coaching Development and League Growth
Beyond criticizing Chelle, Fuludu called for greater investment in indigenous coaching development and the growth of the Nigeria Leagues. He cautioned against unnecessary spending of foreign currency, stating, "For me, I don't think we should throw away foreign currency like that. Let's invest in our coaching development and allow our league to make real progress."
This call aligns with broader trends in African football, as the Confederation of African Football (CAF) has ordered member associations to comply with mandatory coaching requirements for national teams and clubs participating in continental competitions, emphasizing that all qualifications must be fully met.
Potential Successors and Broader Implications
In related developments, the Nigeria Football Federation has reportedly penciled down United States-based coach Michael Nsien as a potential replacement should Chelle resign. Chelle is also attracting interest from Angola following their disappointing outing at the 2025 AFCON, adding another layer of complexity to the situation.
The debate highlights ongoing tensions in Nigerian football between investing in foreign expertise versus nurturing local talent, with figures like Fuludu advocating for a shift towards homegrown solutions to build a sustainable future for the sport in the country.
