NFF to review Eric Chelle’s staggering demands

A member of the board of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has confirmed that Eric Chelle’s new set of conditions for continuing as Super Eagles head coach will be assessed by the federation’s technical committee before any decision is taken.

Chelle remains under contract for another year, but discussions about his long-term future have gathered momentum following Nigeria’s third-place finish at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.

The Super Eagles impressed throughout the tournament, going seven matches unbeaten and bowing out only in a penalty shootout defeat to hosts Morocco national football team in the semi-finals. They also netted 14 goals — the country’s highest scoring output in a single AFCON campaign.

Despite public support from within the federation, the Franco-Malian coach is believed to be attracting attention elsewhere in Africa.

Reports suggest that Anogla and other national associations are prepared to offer a salary in the region of $100,000 per month. Chelle has also been tentatively linked with a possible opening in France after recently changing representation.

As revealed by AfricaSoccer.com, Chelle submitted a list of 19 requests on January 22 as part of discussions over a potential contract extension.

The demands include a private SUV with chauffeur and security escort, accommodation in a secure neighbourhood with uninterrupted power supply, and a fully furnished office fitted with a projector for tactical sessions.

He is also said to have asked for flight tickets for his wife and two children, technical equipment tailored to his specifications, influence over the selection of friendly matches, and full autonomy in squad selection.

In addition, the coach reportedly wants structured access to domestic league fixtures to scout talent for the senior team and youth sides — including the U-23, U-20 and U-17 squads. His personal assistant is also expected to be incorporated into the bonus and allowance structure.

An NFF board member told The PUNCH that the proposals are subject to review.

“Let us not forget that Chelle still has one year left on his current contract. These are fresh demands to be considered for renewal, which remains subject to debate, especially with these terms. This is for the technical committee to review before presenting to the board for approval,” he said.

“Before now, the NFF president has publicly expressed our desire to keep working with him. When the time comes, we will meet again to discuss the new situation.”

He added that the NFF president had previously indicated a willingness to continue working with Chelle, stressing that further talks would take place at the appropriate time.

Away from the negotiations, Chelle has ended his working relationship with agent Abraham Sidibe, who facilitated his appointment as Super Eagles coach.

He is now represented by Wilders Sport, an agency based in Marseille. Speaking to UK-based journalist Osasu Obayiuwana, Chelle said the move was aimed at elevating his professional trajectory and securing stronger advisory support.

The coach is expected to announce his squad for next month’s international window, during which Nigeria will face Jordan in a friendly between March 23 and 31.

Meanwhile, the Super Eagles are awaiting a ruling from FIFA over their protest against DR Congo national football team for allegedly fielding ineligible players in the 2026 World Cup African play-off final last November.

A favourable verdict could see Nigeria progress to the intercontinental play-offs in Mexico, a development that would significantly alter their international calendar.