Julius OkorieBaring last minute change of plan, Super Eagles new coach Eric Chelle will arrive Abuja today ahead of his meeting with Nigeria Football Federation NFF tomorrow to formally seal his two-year contract.
The former Eagles of Mali coach was appointed January 7 by the NFF, amid mixed reactions from analysts and fans alike over his suitability for the job.
Join our WhatsApp ChannelChelle who has witnessed two dismissals in the last three years has been given the mandate to qualify Nigeria for the 2026 world Cup.
Chelle who was appointed head coach of French side US Boulogne in May 2021, was dismissed on 11th December 2021, after the club gained three points in preceding ten games
In 2022, Chelle was appointed manager of Mali. He was dismissed on 13th June 2024, after Mali were held to a goalless draw by 10-man Madagascar in a World Cup qualifier in Johannesburg.
As debate over his appointment continues however, former Super Eagles duo, Julius Aghahowa and Victor Ikpeba, have thrown their weight behind the Ivory Coast-born coach submitting that the 47-year-old former Centre-back who made five senior appearances for Mali stands a chance of delivering in his new job.
Aghahowa known for his summersaulting goal celebration during his days in the national team, emphasised the importance of a fresh mentality within the national team. “I’m hopeful that he’ll infuse a different approach,” he told Brila FM.
“Our nation has abundant talent; what we need to focus on is enhancing the team’s work rate and overall attitude. The challenge has often been players transitioning from their clubs to represent Nigeria with the right mindset.”
On his part while acknowledging the mixed reactions following Chelle’s appointment, Victor Ikpeba who is a member of NFF technical Committee, stated, “It’s natural for such a high-profile appointment to generate varied reactions. This national team generates immense passion, and people will always have strong opinions about its leadership.”
“No matter who the coach is—even someone as renowned as Pep Guardiola—there will always be differing views. Debate and discussion are essential ingredients for progress.”
Among qualities identified by the pro Chelle group include his emphasis on discipline, belief in attacking philosophy and tendency to offer opportunity to young players.
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He was credited for the discovery of Kamaru Dimbia who has scored 10 goals and provided four assists in 20 appearances for the Malian national team.
His attacking philosophy is also seen as a plus in some quarters given that under his guidance Mali recorded emphatic victories, including a 4-0 win against Congo Republic, another 4-0 triumph over South Sudan, and a massive 6-2 victory against Guinea Bissau.
The Eagles will return to World Cup qualifying duties in March beginning with away game to Kigali against Rwanda on March 17. This will be followed by home game against Zimbabwe on March 24 and then return leg at home against Rwanda on September 1.
There will be other clashes against South Africa, Lesotho and Benin Republic as the World Cup qualifying journey progresses.
Julius Okorie is Chief Sports and Entertainment Correspondent for Prime Business Africa. He began his journalism career with the Champion Newspaper and Sporting Champion and later moved on to Daily Independent and the Nation Newspapers. Okorie joined Prime Business Africa in 2024 bringing on board 20 years of experience in writing investigative news on Sports and Entertainment. His well researched and highly informative articles on Sports Business and general entertainment are followed by a wide range of audience.
