Eric Chelle may soon enter a complicated phase of his managerial career as fresh reports link the Super Eagles boss with a possible legal trouble, Footynaija reports.
The 48-year-old tactician remains under contract with the Nigeria Football Federation until 2027 after agreeing a two-year deal in early 2025 to rebuild the Nigeria national football team. His tenure has been widely viewed as positive, particularly after introducing a high-pressing style and faster attacking transitions that revitalised the squad’s identity.
Nigeria’s progress became evident at the Africa Cup of Nations 2025 in Morocco, where the team secured third place and earned praise for entertaining football. That improvement has increased Chelle’s profile across the continent, attracting interest from rival federations.
One year of Monseuir Eric.
— 🇳🇬 Super Eagles (@NGSuperEagles) January 7, 2026
Eric Chelle’s role as #SuperEagles head coach officially began on this day last year 🦅 pic.twitter.com/0E5NqKa1eB
According to reports, the Angolan Football Federation has submitted a lucrative proposal aimed at persuading him to switch national teams before his current contract expires. Despite public appreciation from Nigerian officials, discussions over extending his agreement have slowed, especially after the coach changed representation and sought improved contractual terms.
Off the pitch, a separate dispute could complicate matters further. French journalist Romain Molina claims Chelle’s former representative may consider legal action, arguing negotiations connected to external interest began while the coach was still tied to his previous agency. The disagreement reportedly followed Chelle’s split from long-time agent Abraham Sidibe before joining Wilders Sport.
The Nigeria Football Federation received Eric Chelle’s 19-point contract extension proposal two weeks ago through his former representatives, but discussions have yet to begin with his new team 🇳🇬⚽️
— Brila Media (@Brilafm889) February 20, 2026
If Chelle remains firm on those terms, negotiations could face a serious… pic.twitter.com/RcKnXotN1q
Meanwhile, the NFF is unlikely to approve an early departure without compensation, preferring either a contract renewal or completion of the existing deal.
Chelle this week missed out on the managerial job at Olympique Marseille but remains interested in working in Ligue 1, with FC Nantes mentioned as a potential future destination.
