New Super Eagles manager Eric Chelle has officially parted ways with MC Oran, expressing his deep gratitude to the club and its supporters.
The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) officially appointed the Malian coach as the permanent manager of the Super Eagles on Tuesday.
Chelle officially announced his resignation as head coach of Mouloudia Oran on Saturday, following the team's advancement to the round of sixteen in the Coupe Nationale after their victory over Union Sportive de Sétif.
Despite being under contract with the Algerian club, reports suggest that the former Lens central defender had the option to unilaterally terminate his agreement if an offer from a foreign team arose.
Reflecting on his decision, the 47-year-old described the opportunity to lead Nigeria’s national team as one he simply couldn’t refuse, signaling a bold new step in his managerial journey.
Chelle Embraces Super Eagles role, describes opportunity as irresistible
In the aftermath of his MC Oran's victory over Union Sportive de Sétif, Chelle made it clear that he was ready to embrace the challenge of managing the Super Eagles.
“It was my last match with MCO. On Monday, I will be in Nigeria,” the former Mali coach said.
“The club officials insisted that I stay, but you can't refuse an opportunity like that of managing the best team in Africa and one of the best in the world. It's true that I am very selfish. But once again, I thank the Algerians, as well as the Oran public for the welcome. I also thank my management who always put me in the best conditions, as well as my staff and all my players.”
Chelle's primary responsibility will be to guide the Super Eagles through the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, with pivotal matches against Rwanda on March 17 and Zimbabwe on March 24.
The three-time African champions currently sit in fifth place in their six-team group, having secured only three points from their opening four matches. The group includes Benin, South Africa, and Lesotho.
