The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has named former Mali international Eric Chelle as the new head coach of the Super Eagles. This decision was approved by the NFF Executive Committee following a recommendation by its Technical and Development Sub-Committee.
Who is Eric Chelle?
Background:
Eric Chelle was born on November 11, 1977, in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire. Although raised in France by his French father and Malian mother, Chelle holds Malian citizenship.
Playing Career:
As a central defender, Chelle played for several French clubs, including Valenciennes, Lens, Istres, and Chamois Niortais. He also made five appearances for the Malian national team between 2004 and 2006.
Coaching Career:
Chelle began coaching in 2017, managing clubs like GS Consolat (France), FC Martigues (Ligue 2), Boulogne (Championnat National), and MC Oran (Algeria).
In 2022, he became the head coach of Mali’s national team, leading them to the quarter-finals of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), where Nigeria finished as runners-up. However, his tenure with Mali ended in June 2024 after two years in charge.
Achievements:
Chelle’s most notable achievement as a coach was guiding Mali to the 2023 AFCON quarter-finals. Nigerians hope he can deliver silverware during his time with the Super Eagles.
Coaching Record:
With a managerial record of 67 wins, 40 draws, and 41 losses, Chelle has a win rate of 45.27%.
Coaching Style:
Chelle’s teams are known for their strong aerial play, a strategy influenced by his background as a defender.
Language Skills:
Fluent in French, English, and several African languages, Chelle can easily communicate with his players.
Nigerians now wait to see if Chelle can lead the Super Eagles to the heights they aspire to achieve.
