Nigeria’s National Sports Commission (NSC) has played down rumours linking Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle with other African national teams, insisting the French-Malian manager remains committed to Nigeria’s football project, Footynaija reports.
Chelle’s popularity soared on the continent after guiding Nigeria to third place at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations. His work with the Super Eagles, along with the success he enjoyed while coaching Mali, attracted interest from several countries, including Algeria, Angola, Gabon, Tunisia and Côte d’Ivoire.
Algeria were believed to be the strongest contenders after exiting the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the first knockout stage. Reports claimed they were ready to offer Chelle a much bigger salary because of his previous coaching experience with MC Oran in the Algerian league. However, Nigeria moved quickly to secure his future, while Algeria later turned their attention to Karim Belhocine.
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The Nigeria Football Federation and the NSC have now agreed on a new contract that will reportedly keep Chelle in charge until 2030. His monthly salary has doubled from $50,000 to $100,000, and he will also oversee the Olympic Eagles as part of Nigeria’s long-term player development plan. The new agreement also includes improved welfare for his coaching staff, housing support, security and performance-based incentives.
NSC Director General Bukola Olopade said the agreement shows Nigeria’s determination to keep the coach.
“Before contracts are signed on paper, you must have done a great deal of work to solidify all ends,” Olopade told the Punch.
“It’s a renewed contract, which means it’s an existing one. We have agreed, so I am sure that the Nigeria Football Federation will conclude the documentation as soon as possible.
“Eric is a gentleman, so all the stories about other countries looking for him do not hold water. I’ve sat with him and I know he is not bothered by all those rumours.”
Chelle’s next challenge will be leading Nigeria through the 2027 AFCON qualifiers. The Super Eagles have been drawn in Group H with Madagascar, Tanzania and Guinea-Bissau, with only the group winners guaranteed qualification for the tournament.
