- Chelle’s first tests as Super Eagles coach will be the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers in March 2025 against Rwanda and Zimbabwe
- Coach Chelle, a former central defender, had a distinguished playing career in France and represented Mali internationally, earning six caps
- The Super Eagles’ new coach comes from a family of athletes, including a basketball-playing brother, nephew, and son
The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) officially announced Éric Sékou Chelle as the new head coach of the Super Eagles on Tuesday, January 7, 2025.
In a statement, the NFF expressed confidence in his capabilities, noting that his appointment followed a recommendation by the Technical and Development Sub-Committee. Chelle, who previously managed the Mali national team, comes with a robust resume and a wealth of football experience.
As Mali's head coach from 2022, Chelle led the Aiglons to the quarter-finals of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Côte d’Ivoire, where his team narrowly fell to the eventual champions in extra time. A former central defender, Chelle earned five caps for the Malian national team and has managed clubs like GS Consolat, FC Martigues, Boulogne, and MC Oran.
TheRadar has compiled below some fascinating facts about the man tasked with steering the Super Eagles to greater heights.
10 fascinating facts about Éric Chelle
From his impressive playing career to his tactical philosophy and fascinating family background, here are several amazing facts about the new gaffer:
1. French roots
Chelle played as a central defender throughout his career, primarily in France. He represented notable clubs like Valenciennes, Lens, Istres, and Chamois Niortais.
2. Dual nationality
Despite being eligible to represent France, Chelle chose to play for Mali, earning six international caps between 2003 and 2006.
3. Football management
After hanging up his boots, Chelle started his coaching career in France’s lower leagues. His managerial journey began in 2021 with US Boulogne, although his tenure ended after seven months.
4. Mali’s national team
Chelle was appointed head coach of Mali’s national team in 2022, leading them to the quarter-finals of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations. Sadly, they narrowly lost to hosts Ivory Coast in extra time.
5. A proven record
Chelle has managed 148 games, achieving 67 wins, 40 draws, and 41 losses, giving him a respectable win percentage of 45.27%.
6. Nigeria’s first non-Nigerian African coach
Chelle made history by becoming the first non-Nigerian African to lead the Super Eagles.
7. Tactician
Chelle’s preferred 4-3-1-2 “diamond” formation helps midfield control and accommodates two strikers. This style could transform Nigeria’s attacking prowess but may challenge traditional winger roles for the likes of Lookman, Chwukueze, Moses Simon, etc.
8. A family of athletes
Chelle comes from a sporting lineage. His father was a footballer, his brother had a 25-year basketball career, and his nephew and son both play basketball for Mali.
9. Inspired by his maternal grandfather
Chelle’s decision to represent Mali was influenced by his maternal grandfather, whose encouragement at a young age helped his passion for football.
10. A steady start with the Super Eagles
Chelle’s first assignment with the Super Eagles will be the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers in March 2025. Nigeria will face Rwanda away and Zimbabwe at home, providing an early test of his tactical acumen.
NFF sympathises with board vice president after encounter with armed robbers
Previously, TheRadar reported that Felix Anyansi-Agwu, the first vice president of the Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) and a revered figure in Nigerian football, is recovering after a terrifying armed robbery at his residence in Gwarinpa Estate, Abuja.
The NFF, led by President Ibrahim Gusau, has rallied around Anyansi-Agwu in the aftermath of the incident. Gusau, accompanied by NFF General Secretary Mohammed Sanusi, visited the family to show support and offer prayers for a swift recovery.
