Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle is still awaiting a contract extension with the Nigeria Football Federation, leaving the future of the Franco-Malian tactician uncertain as rival African countries and clubs weigh up bids to bring him over.
Contract talks still ongoing
NSC Chairman Malam Shehu Dikko previously stated that the commission and the NFF had reached an agreement on a fresh deal for Chelle. The proposed package was described as an upgraded salary arrangement, with the federation set to cover the costs of his backroom staff. Dikko also said the arrangement would include an extra responsibility focused on overseeing Nigeria’s U23 programme in the build-up to the next Olympic Games.
However, despite that public announcement, Chelle has reportedly not yet put pen to paper on the extension.
Interest from elsewhere grows
Journalist Oluwashina Okeleji reported that the NFF is encountering mounting pressure from other football markets, with multiple African national sides and North African clubs showing interest in Chelle’s services.
- Several African national teams are monitoring the situation with a view to recruiting the coach.
- North African clubs are also understood to be among the parties interested in securing Chelle.
- The competition for his signature increases the urgency for the NFF to conclude talks.
What Chelle’s current deal and record show
Chelle was appointed Super Eagles manager in January 2025 and remains contracted until January 2027. His time in charge has produced mixed outcomes so far, including leading Nigeria to a third-place finish at the last Africa Cup of Nations.
At the same time, Nigeria fell short in its attempt to qualify for the ongoing 2026 FIFA World Cup, underscoring the challenges the team has faced during his spell.
Next steps: push for stability ahead of qualifiers
With preparations for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign expected to start in the coming months, the NFF is keen to bring negotiations to a close and agree Chelle’s long-term future.
An extension is seen as a way to provide stability for the Super Eagles as they enter the qualifying phase, while also helping the federation protect the coach from growing interest across the continent.
- Negotiations are expected to intensify as the AFCON qualifiers approach.
- A new agreement would aim to lock in continuity for Nigeria’s campaign.
- The NFF is also trying to reduce the likelihood of Chelle being tempted away.
