The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) Executive Committee has formally endorsed the appointment of Mr. Éric Sékou Chelle as the new Head Coach of the Super Eagles, Nigeria’s senior men’s national football team. This decision follows the recommendation of the NFF’s Technical and Development Sub-Committee, made during a meeting held in Abuja on Thursday, 2nd January 2025.
The 47-year-old Chelle, a former head coach of Mali’s senior national team, Aiglons, brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record to the Super Eagles. His appointment was officially ratified by the NFF Executive Committee on Tuesday, 7th January 2025.
Chelle’s coaching career is highlighted by his remarkable stint with the Aiglons, which he has managed since 2022. Under his leadership, Mali delivered an impressive performance at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Côte d’Ivoire, narrowly missing out on a semi-final berth. In a gripping quarter-final clash, Mali led the host nation and eventual champions Côte d’Ivoire 1-0 until the final minute of regulation time, before succumbing to a 2-1 defeat after extra time.
Before taking on national team responsibilities, Chelle coached several clubs across France and Algeria, including GS Consolat, FC Martigues, Boulogne, and MC Oran. As a player, he enjoyed a distinguished career in French football, featuring for clubs such as Martigues, Valenciennes, Lens, Istres, and Chamois Niortais. He also earned five international caps for Mali.
With his appointment, Chelle now faces the critical task of leading the Super Eagles to secure qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. The next phase of qualification matches, Matchdays 5 and 6, is slated for March 2025, providing the new coach with a significant early challenge.
Fans and stakeholders in Nigerian football will look to Chelle to restore the Super Eagles to continental and global prominence, leveraging his tactical acumen and competitive experience.
