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Nigeria Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has become a leading candidate for the Algeria national team job following the Desert Foxes’ disappointing exit from the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Footynaija reports.
According to reports, the Algerian Football Federation (FAF) has reached out to Chelle as uncertainty continues to surround current coach Vladimir Petkovic. Algeria were knocked out in the Round of 32 after a 2-0 defeat to Switzerland, a result that has raised serious questions about Petkovic’s future.
Football officials in Algeria are said to be unhappy with some of the team’s tactical decisions during the tournament. One of the biggest talking points was Petkovic’s decision to play without a recognised striker against Switzerland, instead using youngster Ibrahim Maza as a false nine.
Chelle’s growing reputation in African football has made him an attractive option. The Franco-Malian coach impressed during his time with Mali before taking charge of the Super Eagles, and he also has experience in Algerian football from his spell with MC Oran. His organised style, tactical discipline and knowledge of African football are believed to be key reasons behind Algeria’s interest.
Despite the reported approach, prising Chelle away from Nigeria will not be easy. The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) and the National Sports Commission (NSC) have reportedly agreed a new long-term contract that keeps him in charge until 2030. The deal is also said to include a significant salary increase and expanded responsibilities, with Chelle expected to oversee both the Super Eagles and the Olympic Eagles.
Although Algeria, Guinea, Angola and Marseille have all been linked with the coach in recent months, Nigeria appear fully committed to building its future around Chelle, making any immediate move away from the Super Eagles highly unlikely.
