NFF Issues Strong Warning to Super Eagles Coach Eric Chelle as FIFA World Cup Ruling Looms
The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has issued a stern warning to Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle amid reported interest from other African nations and clubs, including Olympique de Marseille. This comes as FIFA deliberates on rulings related to the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, adding pressure to Nigeria's football administration.
Background and Appointment of Eric Chelle
Eric Chelle, a 48-year-old Franco-Malian coach, was appointed in January 2025 following the dismissal of Jose Peseiro and the resignation of Finidi George. This change came after a poor run in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, with Chelle tasked with revitalizing the team's performance.
Under his leadership, Nigeria achieved a second-place finish in CAF Qualification Group C, trailing only behind the South Africa national football team. This result secured a playoff spot, but the Super Eagles later faced disappointment in a penalty shootout loss to the DR Congo national football team in the final at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium on November 16.
Contractual Uncertainties and NFF's Stance
Despite these challenges, the NFF retained Chelle for the 35th Africa Cup of Nations. Nigeria performed strongly in the tournament, recording group-stage wins over Tanzania, Tunisia, and Uganda. The team advanced to the Round of 16 with a 4-0 victory over Tanzania and defeated Algeria 2-0 in the quarterfinals. Although they lost 4-2 on penalties to hosts Morocco in the semifinals, the Super Eagles secured a bronze medal by beating Egypt 4-2 on penalties.
However, the NFF has now cautioned Chelle against considering other job offers, particularly the Angola position following the dismissal of Patrice Beaumelle. Reports indicate that Chelle is among the candidates to replace Beaumelle, who is in talks with Tunisian giants Espérance de Tunis after Angola's disappointing AFCON campaign.
An NFF official emphasized that Chelle would be required to compensate the federation for breaching his contract if he decides to leave. The source stated, "I know Chelle is not daft to think that he can walk away from his current contract with the NFF. He is still the Super Eagles coach and can’t negotiate with any team by the laws of the game. If he decides to leave then he will have to pay for breaching his contract."
NFF's Confidence and FIFA Decision
The Nigeria Football Federation has maintained a confident tone throughout this process. General Secretary Dr. Mohammed Sanusi publicly stated that the federation would not have pursued the case if it believed the claims were weak. He remarked, "We have a good case. We do not venture into what would be an exercise in futility. As far as we are concerned, we have a strong case, and we are awaiting FIFA’s decision on the complaints we have lodged."
Players, including Super Eagles midfielder Alex Iwobi, have been closely following developments, with the squad remaining hopeful despite the uncertainty surrounding their fate in the World Cup qualifiers.
Eric Chelle's Ambitions and Career
In addition to the current contract disputes, Eric Chelle has expressed his desire to become the first African coach to manage Real Madrid. His highest club coaching career achievements include roles in the French Ligue 1 and the Algerian Ligue 1 before venturing into international management. This ambition adds another layer to the ongoing discussions about his future with the Super Eagles.
The situation underscores the high stakes in Nigerian football as the NFF navigates contractual obligations, coaching ambitions, and pending FIFA rulings, all while aiming to maintain stability and performance in the national team.
