Algeria have stepped up their search for a new head coach by identifying Nigeria manager Eric Chelle as a leading candidate while the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) continues negotiations over a new contract — GoalNigeria.com reports.
Chelle has yet to sign an extension with the Super Eagles despite National Sports Commission chairman Shehu Dikko announcing in June that both parties had reached an agreement on improved terms.
The delay has allowed Algeria to assess the 48-year-old as they continue their search for a manager.
Algeria Intensify Search For New Head Coach
The Algerian Football Federation wants to appoint a coach who can restore the Desert Foxes’ standing in African football after a disappointing run of results.
With preparations for the next Africa Cup of Nations and the 2030 FIFA World Cup qualifiers already under way, Algeria have identified several candidates, including Chelle.
AFCON Campaign Raises Chelle’s Profile
Chelle strengthened his reputation by leading Nigeria to a third-place finish at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.
Although the Super Eagles failed to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Chelle rebuilt the squad, introduced younger players and earned praise for improving the team’s performances. His work has attracted interest from several African football federations.
BBC journalist Oluwashina Okeleji dismissed reports that Chelle had already agreed a new contract with Nigeria.
“Éric Chelle has not extended his contract with Nigeria and reports to the contrary follow cursory comments by the NSC chairman,” Okeleji wrote on X.
He added that the NFF faces competition from several African countries and North African clubs that want to appoint the Franco-Malian coach.
Nigeria Yet To Complete Contract Extension
Dikko announced last month that the NFF had reached an agreement with Chelle on an improved contract. The proposed deal would also place him in charge of Nigeria’s Under-23 team ahead of the 2028 Olympic Games.
However, Chelle has not signed the contract, and officials from both the NSC and the NFF have not confirmed when they expect negotiations to end.
Chelle entered the second year of the two-year contract he signed after taking charge of the Super Eagles. His current deal runs until around December 2026 or January 2027.
Reports in Nigeria indicate that Chelle wants a monthly salary of $130,000 and improved working conditions, while the NFF plans to offer about $100,000 per month.
Competition grows for leading coaches
African football federations continue to compete for experienced coaches as they prepare for the next cycle of World Cup qualifiers and continental competitions.
Algeria now have an opportunity to appoint one of Africa’s most highly rated coaches if Nigeria fail to conclude negotiations. The longer the talks continue, the greater the chance that another federation could persuade Chelle to move.
