The Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) officially unveiled Eric Sékou Chelle as the new head coach of the Super Eagles at the Media Conference Room of the MKO Abiola National Stadium on Monday.
The appointment of the 47-year-old Franco-Malian manager comes with high expectations as he takes on the challenging task of leading Nigeria back to the FIFA World Cup.
Here are three major takeaways from his unveiling.
English proficiency raises questions
Despite earlier reports that Chelle was fluent in English and even conducted his interview with the NFF in the language, Monday’s unveiling told a different story. The former Lens defender spoke only a few words in English, delivered slowly, revealing that his grasp of the language is far from strong.
Chelle’s professional background in French-speaking environments like France, Ivory Coast, Algeria, and Mali explains his preference for French. This development has drawn comparisons to the days of José Peseiro, whose press conferences often required audiences to strain to comprehend his words.
The linguistic barrier may pose a challenge for Chelle in managing a squad as diverse as the Super Eagles, where most players are English-speaking. Unless he opts to work with an interpreter, the French-speaking players in the squad may need to bridge the gap and assist in communication with their teammates.
Chelle's focus on the main Super Eagles squad
Contrary to earlier speculations, Chelle will not coach the home-based Super Eagles (CHAN team) preparing for the 2024 African Nations Championship. Instead, per the NFF president Ibrahim Gusau, his role will be in an advisory capacity.
Responsibility for coaching will remain with the crew that secured qualification for the tournament—Daniel Ogunmodede, Fidelis Ilechukwu, and Abiodun Baruwa.
Chelle’s primary focus will be on the senior Super Eagles as they gear up for crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers in March 2025, starting with matches against Rwanda and Zimbabwe in Uyo.
This separation of responsibilities allows Chelle to fully dedicate his attention to Nigeria’s pursuit of a return to football’s grandest stage.
Augustine Eguavoen returns in full health
Another significant moment from the unveiling was the reassuring presence of NFF Technical Director Augustine Eguavoen.
Following a major surgical procedure in Belgium late last year, which he delayed to prioritize Nigeria’s 2025 AFCON qualification campaign, Eguavoen appeared hale and hearty at the event.
Eguavoen warmly embraced Chelle at the venue, signaling a strong working relationship ahead. With Chelle now in charge of the Super Eagles, Eguavoen is expected to focus on his responsibilities as the head of the NFF’s Technical Department.
