Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle has received strong backing from the Nigeria squad after winger Moses Simon explained why the players remain united behind him despite the country’s World Cup setback.
The Nigeria international spoke after the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), working with the National Sports Commission (NSC), handed the Super Eagles coach a new contract that will keep him in charge until 2030.
The extension follows Chelle’s first full spell as Nigeria coach. During that time, the Malian tactician guided the Super Eagles to a third-place finish at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco.
The Super Eagles vice-captain said the squad have built a strong relationship with the head coach.
“Chelle is a good person,” Simon told New Telegraph.
“For many years we haven’t had a coach like this and we haven’t had a good run like this. In the last game he did very well. He brought all the teams together. He’s like a father and big brother to everybody.
“He loves his players and wants us to go all the way in our games. That’s why the players are ready to do everything for the coach and for themselves. We are all happy he is staying. We look forward to working with him in the next assignment. In the end, the national team will be better under him.”
The Paris FC winger also spoke about Nigeria’s World Cup disappointment.
“The Eagles are not happy missing out on the ongoing World Cup, but we will do better in subsequent games under Chelle,” he said.
Eric Chelle’s New Super Eagles Role
The Super Eagles boss has also taken on wider responsibilities under his new contract.
His monthly salary has increased from $50,000 to $100,000. The NFF will now pay his assistant coaches directly.
The agreement also provides the Nigeria coach with an official residence, a private vehicle with a chauffeur and security, a furnished analysis office, and travel support for members of his family.
Alongside the Super Eagles, the head coach will manage the Nigeria U-23 men’s team. His task is to help the side qualify for the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles.
The Malian tactician will also continue to oversee the home-based Super Eagles B team ahead of the African Nations Championship (CHAN).
Super Eagles Prepare For AFCON Qualifiers
Nigeria’s next major assignment under Chelle will be the 2027 AFCON qualifying campaign.
The Super Eagles have been drawn alongside Madagascar, Guinea-Bissau and co-host Tanzania.
Before the qualifiers begin, the Super Eagles coach is expected to review key areas of his squad. They include midfield creativity, competition at left-back, the goalkeeping position and attacking support for Victor Osimhen.
