The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) officially unveiled Eric Chelle as the new head coach of the Super Eagles on Monday, marking the beginning of a new era for Nigeria’s senior men’s national football team.
The unveiling ceremony took place at the Moshood Abiola Stadium in Abuja, where a formal contract-signing event saw Chelle officially confirmed as the of the Super Eagles.
This followed last week’s announcement of the French-Malian’s appointment, succeeding Austin Eguavoen, who had been in charge on an interim basis.
At the event Chelle was presented with the Super Eagles’ coaching reins amid high expectations and much scrutiny.
His appointment comes at a crucial time for the team, which is preparing for the remaining matches in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign.
Mixed reactions trail Chelle's unveiling
After his unveiling, some pundits and football fans took to social media platform X (formerly known as Twitter) to express concerns over his credentials, questioning whether he possesses the necessary experience and tactical acumen to lead Nigeria’s elite national team – the Super Eagles.
It was not all doom and gloom from fans, as some lent their support to the new coach and wished him well as he starts his journey with the Super Eagles.
A former media officer of the Super Eagles responded to Chelle's first few words as coach of the team, reminding him that scoring goals is as important as not conceding goals.
Chelle also had a bit to share about his methods, his love for the Super Eagles and what he hopes to achieve with the team.
Chelle's first major task will be preparing the Super Eagles for their upcoming away match against Rwanda, followed by a crucial home clash against Zimbabwe in March.
Only time will tell if the former Mali coach can live up to expectations and lead Nigeria to success on the continental and global stages.
