Criticism has followed the appointment of Eric Chelle as Super Eagles of Nigeria head coach by the Nigeria Football Federation as many argue that Eric Chelle lacks the needed expertise to coordinate the affairs of the super eagles of Nigeria.
Éric Sékou Chelle appointment as the head coach of the Super Eagles by the Nigeria Football Federation has particularly criticized by former Gombe State Football Association chairman, Gara Gombe. Known for his outspoken views on Nigerian football administration, Gombe did not hold back, describing the appointment as “unfortunate” and labeling Chelle as a “kindergarten coach.”
In his sharp rebuke, Gombe questioned the NFF’s decision to entrust a team of world-class players to someone he deems unqualified for the role. “Who is Chelle? Who knows him? What are his credentials? Nothing. For goodness’ sake, after all this waiting since the AFCON in Ivory Coast, we still couldn’t find a coach. And now, after all these years, we appoint a kindergarten coach to manage world-class players? It’s really unfortunate,” Gombe stated.
Éric Chelle, a 47-year-old former Malian international, has had a career in coaching spanning over a decade. He previously managed clubs like GS Consolat, FC Martigues, Boulogne, and MC Oran before leading Mali’s national team to the quarter-finals of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations. Despite these achievements, Gombe and other critics argue that his experience pales in comparison to the expectations tied to the Super Eagles, a team boasting players like Victor Osimhen and Wilfred Ndidi.
Chelle’s appointment comes after months of uncertainty surrounding the Super Eagles’ coaching position, following the exit of Finidi George in mid-2024. While the NFF cited Chelle’s tactical acumen and potential as reasons for his selection, the brevity of his contract—reportedly tied to the World Cup qualifying series—has fueled speculation about the federation’s long-term strategy for the team.
The football community has been divided over Chelle’s appointment. On social media, many fans echoed Gombe’s sentiments, criticizing the NFF for what they perceive as a lack of ambition. A fan on X lamented, “For the calibre of the present Super Eagles players, I don’t think this man is the right choice! Of all the options available out there, this is our best?”
Others, however, have urged patience and support for the new coach. “Let’s give him a chance,” one user posted. “Though to be honest, the NFF has set him up for failure. He will need ice blocks to cool his head in the next two World Cup qualifiers.”
Chelle steps into a high-pressure role with the Super Eagles currently struggling in their World Cup qualifying campaign. With just three points from four matches, the team faces an uphill battle in their quest for a spot in the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Upcoming fixtures against Rwanda and Zimbabwe will be pivotal, both for the team’s qualification hopes and for Chelle’s reputation.
Adding to his immediate responsibilities, Chelle is expected to lead the home-based Super Eagles at the African Nations Championship (CHAN) in February. Observers note that these challenges will provide an early litmus test for his capabilities.
In response to the criticism, former NFF official Chris Green called for unity and support for Chelle. “Whether or not he was the ideal choice, the fact remains that he is here now. We need to create an environment that allows him to succeed. The Super Eagles are bigger than any individual,” Green remarked.
Meanwhile, the NFF defended its decision, emphasizing Chelle’s previous achievements and potential for bringing a fresh perspective to the team. Federation officials have urged fans and stakeholders to focus on the broader goal of restoring the Super Eagles to their former glory.
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