Nearly 12 months after Jose Peseiro left his role as the manager of the Nigerian male senior football team, a new coach has finally been appointed to replace him in a full-time role after Finidi George resigned and Austin Eguaveon’s interim tenure came to an end. The new Super Eagles manager was one of the stars of the 2023 African Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Côte d’Ivoire.
In an official statement released by the Nigerian Football Federation, the former coach of the Malian national team, Eric Sekou Chelle was announced as the new manager of the Super Eagles of Nigeria.
Reactions have trailed the announcement of Eric Chelle as the new head coach of the Nigerian senior national men’s football team. The Nigerian social media space has raging with different comments.
Eric Chelle gained huge prominence with how his Malian side dominated teams throughout their AFCON and World Cup qualifying matches. Also, a video of his staff pouring water on his head during a match between Mali and Ivory Coast at the last AFCON made famous.
In that match, Côte d’Ivoire came from a goal behind to snatch a late win against Eric Chelle’s Malian side.
What should know about new Super Eagles manager, Eric Chelle
Chelle spent his entire professional playing career in France, where he built a reputation as a dependable and disciplined defender. Between 2003 and 2006, he earned six caps for the Malian national team, showcasing his talent on the international stage.
His transition from player to coach has been equally impressive, as he has steadily risen through the ranks of French football management. Before taking on the Super Eagles job, Chelle worked in the French lower divisions, honing his tactical and managerial skills.
In 2022, he was appointed head coach of Mali and led the team to the quarter-finals of the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). This achievement highlighted his ability to inspire and organize his team effectively, earning him recognition across the continent.
A New Chapter Starts
As the new head coach of the Super Eagles, Chelle faces the challenge of steering Nigeria to greater heights, firstly by salvaging Nigeria’s quest to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
His appointment signals a commitment to building a strong, cohesive team capable of competing on the global stage. With Nigeria’s rich pool of talent and Chelle’s proven track record, there is a bit of optimism about the future of the Super Eagles.
After a poor start in the World Cup qualifiers, the Super Eagles need a stern hand with experience, and Chelle seems to be the ideal candidate according to the NFF.
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