Five positive attributes of new Super Eagles coach, Eric Chelle

The appointment of Eric Sékou Chelle as the new Super Eagles coach by the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has sparked widespread criticism among fans. Despite this, the 47-year-old tactician boasts notable qualities that could positively influence the team.

In a historic move, the NFF announced Chelle, a former Mali coach, as the new manager of the Super Eagles on Monday, January 7. Chelle becomes the first non-Nigerian African to manage the men’s senior national team, a decision that has drawn mixed reactions from Nigerian football fans.

The 47-year-old tactician caught the attention of Nigerians last year when he led Mali to their first victory over the Super Eagles in 50 years. However, his appointment has been met with scepticism, with fans questioning his credentials and labelling him a “French Ligue 2 veteran.”

Read also: Fans slam NFF over choice of Eric Chelle as Super Eagles coach

Based on his tenure with Mali, here are key attributes and potential changes Chelle could bring to the Super Eagles:

Opportunity for Young Players

Chelle is known for giving young players a chance to shine. In Mali, he discovered talents like Kamaru Dimbia, who has scored 10 goals and provided four assists in 20 appearances for the national team. Other young stars also thrived under his leadership.

Emphasis on Discipline

Chelle prioritizes strict discipline within his squad. He ensures no player is considered bigger than the team. For instance, Yves Bissouma, Mali’s biggest star during the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Ivory Coast, started most games on the bench due to his commitment levels, highlighting Chelle’s no-nonsense approach.

Attacking Philosophy

Chelle is known for his attacking style of play. Under his guidance, Mali recorded emphatic victories, including a 4-0 win against Congo Republic, another 4-0 triumph over South Sudan, and a massive 6-2 victory against Guinea Bissau. His teams are often known for their ability to score goals in abundance.

Tactical Versatility

Chelle’s teams are adaptable and can execute various tactical plans depending on the opposition. His ability to identify and exploit weaknesses in opponents could help the Super Eagles improve their competitive edge.

Team Unity

The coach emphasizes team cohesion, ensuring players work as a unit. This approach fosters a strong sense of purpose and collective responsibility within the squad.

Born in Ivory Coast to a French father and a Malian mother, Chelle possesses triple nationality: Malian, Ivorian, and French. He enjoyed a significant portion of his playing career in France, representing clubs such as FC Martigues, Valenciennes, Lens, Istres, and Chamois Niortais.

At the international level, Chelle represented Mali, earning five caps for the national team.

His coaching career encompassed stints at clubs like GS Consolat, FC Martigues, Boulogne, and MC Oran. In 2022, he was appointed as the head coach of the Mali national team.

Chelle guided Mali to the brink of the Africa Cup of Nations semi-finals, leading hosts and eventual champions Ivory Coast for much of the match. However, they conceded an equalizer in the final minute of regulation time and ultimately lost 2-1 after extra time. Chelle’s emotional reaction to this defeat became a viral meme.

In June 2024, Chelle was dismissed as Mali’s head coach shortly after they were held to a goalless draw by 10-man Madagascar in a World Cup qualifier in Johannesburg.

While Chelle’s appointment has been met with scepticism, his track record suggests he has the potential to positively influence the Super Eagles. Nigerian football fans will be keen to see how the new coach implements his strategies and whether he can lead the team to greater heights.

Anthony Nlebem

Head of Sports at BusinessDay Media, a seasoned Digital Content Producer, and FIFA/CAF Accredited Journalist with over a decade of sports reporting.Has a deep understanding of the Nigerian and global sports landscape and skills in delivering comprehensive and insightful sports content.


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