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Nigeria head coach Eric Chelle has opened talks with the Nigeria Football Federation over a new contract that would see his salary rise sharply, following the Super Eagles’ impressive showing at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, Footynaija.com reports.
Chelle, 48, is reportedly demanding from the NFF a deal worth close to $100,000 a month, a major jump from his current pay. The request comes after Nigeria finished third at the tournament, with the Super Eagles winning praise for their energetic and attacking style of play.
Many fans believe the coach has earned better conditions after restoring confidence and structure to the team. Others, however, have urged caution, pointing to the NFF’s long-term financial plans and the need to invest across youth development and domestic football.
🚨 EXCLUSIVE NEWS: Nigeria head coach Eric Chelle’s contract extension talks with the NFF have stalled.
— SportyTV (@SportyTV) February 18, 2026
Sources close to the situation confirm the Angolan Football Federation has returned with a major offer to tempt Chelle away.
🗞️ @KamoMotecwane with the latest information pic.twitter.com/7Y5IhomgLd
So far, the federation has not publicly responded to the demand, but discussions are expected to continue quietly behind the scenes.
Recent speculation linking Chelle with a move to Olympique de Marseille has also begun to fade. While his name was briefly mentioned as a possible replacement for Roberto De Zerbi, Chelle has played down the rumours, suggesting the French club is more likely to turn to Habib Beye.
Even with the Marseille option cooling, interest in Chelle is said to be growing across Africa following Nigeria’s strong AFCON campaign.
The former Mali coach signed a two-year deal with Nigeria in January 2025 and still has around 12 months left on his contract. If fresh terms are not agreed, there is a growing belief he could consider new opportunities elsewhere.
Chelle’s first task of the year would be to guide the Super Eagles into two friendly games in March – against Jordan and Iran.
