Head coach of the Super Eagles, Eric Chelle, has signed a new contract with the Nigeria Football Federation, NFF, putting an end to speculations that persisted since the Africa Cup of Nations, AFCON, ended earlier this year.
Negotiations had stretched across over months, with Chelle submitting a 19-point proposal to the NFF in January.
One of his demands was a monthly package of $130,000 to cover his salary and that of his technical staff.
The NFF reportedly offered a figure closer to $100,000.
“Considering what he has done so far and how the future under him is looking, it is worth it,” Clinton McDubus, a top football analyst and podcaster, tells DAILY POST.
“It is worth noting that other African countries are looking at him as a strong option right now.
“For someone in high demand, that is a good deal.”
Chelle was appointed in January 2025, signing a two-year deal with the specific target of qualifying Nigeria for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
He didn’t. The three-time African champions lost to the Democratic Republic of Congo in the continental play-off final.
At the AFCON, the Super Eagles Egypt on penalties after a semi-final defeat to hosts Morocco, also on penalties.
“I think he has been impressive since taking the job,” McDubus said.
“We have seen a clear idea and playing philosophy, as well as excellent execution on the pitch.
“We have also seen our National Team progress and become attractive again under him, with new talents integrated seamlessly as well. He has been a net positive, by far.”
Chelle’s new agreement with the NFF will see him also take charge of the U-23 side.
This means he has been tasked with qualifying Nigeria for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.
The country has not featured in the men’s Olympic football tournament since winning bronze at Rio de Janeiro in 2016.
But, what is this idea of expanding Chelle’s brief about? Is it because the NFF want the $100k salary to be fully accounted for?
“It is completely normal,” McDubus insists.
“Marcelo Bielsa was in charge of the Argentine Under-23 team that won the Olympic football tournament in 2004, while still in charge of the national team.
“The idea is for the coach to oversee the progression of the next batch of talents ready to enter the senior national team.
“Chelle clearly wants them to already be familiar with the playing philosophy, to make their integration easier. It’s a brilliant idea.”
The onus is now on Chelle to deliver in the coming months, with all the next AFCON qualifiers looming.
Can Nigerians be confident?
“I’m confident he will,” McDubus said.
“AFCON 2025 showed us what is possible. With the way we played and how we imposed ourselves against other top teams on the continent, there’s every reason to be optimistic.
“Chelle’s team is the most impressive Super Eagles team I’ve watched since the 90s set.”
(Daily Post)
