The Nigeria Football Federation has officially appointed Éric Sékou Chelle as the new head coach of the Super Eagles.
The decision, announced on Tuesday, was approved by the NFF Executive Committee after a recommendation from the Technical and Development Sub-Committee during a meeting in Abuja on January 2, 2025.
In a statement, the NFF said, “The Executive Committee of the Nigeria Football Federation has endorsed the recommendation of its Technical and Development Sub-Committee for the appointment of Mr. Éric Sékou Chelle as Head Coach of Nigeria’s senior men’s national football team, Super Eagles.”
Chelle, 47, is a former head coach of Mali’s senior national team and brings extensive coaching experience. He has managed clubs such as GS Consolat, FC Martigues, Boulogne, and MC Oran.
During his playing career in France, Chelle played for clubs including Martigues, Valenciennes, Lens, Istres, and Chamois Niortais.
Born in Côte d’Ivoire to a French father and a Malian mother, Chelle had the choice to represent Côte d’Ivoire, France, or Mali in his international career. He chose Mali, earning five caps before retiring.
As Mali’s head coach from 2022 to 2024, Chelle led the team to the quarter-finals of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations in Côte d’Ivoire.
His leadership saw Mali achieve 14 wins, five draws, and only three losses, including a strong showing at AFCON, where they narrowly missed the semi-finals after losing to the eventual champions.
The Super Eagles head coach position has been vacant since Finidi George stepped down in June 2024 following poor results in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, including a disappointing draw against South Africa and a loss to the Benin Republic.
Chelle’s immediate task is to prepare the Super Eagles for the crucial Matchday 5 and 6 FIFA World Cup qualifiers in March 2025.
Chelle’s appointment signals a fresh start for the Super Eagles as they aim to reclaim their position as one of Africa’s top teams. His experience and track record with Mali are seen as assets in tackling the challenges ahead.
The NFF has expressed confidence in his ability to lead the team effectively, with fans eager to see how the former Mali coach will handle the Super Eagles’ next chapter.
