Fakayejo Paul
The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has officially appointed Éric Sékou Chelle as the new head coach of the Super Eagles.
This announcement follows the recommendation of the NFF’s Technical and Development Sub-Committee and comes after the resignation of José Peseiro earlier this year.
Chelle, a seasoned coach with experience managing clubs in France and leading the Mali national team to the quarterfinals of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, will immediately assume his duties. His first assignment will be to lead the home-based Super Eagles at the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) in East Africa, providing an opportunity to assess and integrate domestic talent into the senior national team.
NFF President Ibrahim Gusau emphasized the importance of this dual role, stating, “We want whoever takes charge of the team to begin immediately, which is why the same coach will manage the CHAN Eagles.
This allows us to identify promising home-based players who can contribute to the senior national team.”
Chelle’s appointment comes at a crucial juncture for the Super Eagles.
With the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers set to resume in March, the new coach faces the immediate challenge of guiding Nigeria back on track and securing qualification for the global stage.
The NFF will be looking to Chelle to bring his tactical expertise and experience to bear as he seeks to revitalize the Super Eagles and restore them to their former glory.