The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has officially introduced Éric Chelle as the new head coach of the Super Eagles. The unveiling took place on Monday, January 13, 2024, at the Moshood Abiola Stadium in Abuja, in a ceremony attended by key figures in Nigerian football, including Shehu Dikko, Chairman of the National Sports Commission, NFF President Ibrahim Gusau, and Secretary General Mohammed Sanusi.
Chelle, 47, joins the Super Eagles after resigning from his role at Algerian club MC Oran. He arrives with a robust backroom staff comprising First Assistant Hadi Taboubi, Fitness Trainer Thomas Gornourec, and Goalkeeper Trainer Jean Daniel Padovani.
The NFF confirmed that Chelle’s immediate focus will be on preparing the Super Eagles for the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN), co-hosted by Uganda, Kenya, and Tanzania. The tournament provides Chelle an opportunity to assess domestic talent and build a competitive squad ahead of the World Cup Qualifiers in March.
Speaking at the unveiling, NFF President Ibrahim Gusau expressed confidence in Chelle's ability to lead the Super Eagles to greater heights. “We are thrilled to have Éric Chelle on board. His experience and vision align with our aspirations for the Super Eagles, and we look forward to a successful tenure,” Gusau said.
In his remarks, Chelle pledged to deliver results and build a formidable team. “It’s an honor to coach one of Africa’s most iconic teams. I am committed to working with the players, staff, and NFF to achieve our goals and bring success to Nigerian football,” he stated.
Chelle’s tenure begins with high expectations, as the Super Eagles aim to reclaim their dominance in African and global football.
