How Eric Chelle emerged as Nigeria’s unexpected choice – NFF chief recounts

When Finidi George stepped down as head coach of Nigeria’s Super Eagles, the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) found itself navigating a difficult and unusually turbulent search for a successor.

According to information from within the federation, the role did not attract immediate interest from several high-profile candidates who were initially approached or considered.

The NFF reportedly turned to former interim handler Austin Eguavoen after talks with German coach Bruno Labbadia collapsed over contractual terms, particularly salary expectations.

Labbadia, who had even been publicly linked with the position, ultimately withdrew from negotiations just days before the start of the Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.

Sweden’s former national team coach, Janne Andersson, was also mentioned among those sounded out but is said to have declined interest in taking up the role.

Meanwhile, experienced French coach Hervé Renard confirmed he received a strong offer from Nigeria but opted instead to return to Saudi Arabia, where he resumed national team duties.

Amid these setbacks, Eric Chelle emerged as the eventual appointment.

A senior NFF official, speaking to OwnGoalNigeria.com, suggested Chelle was not necessarily the federation’s first choice but became the most viable option after other negotiations failed.

“Chelle took over after it was clear that no coach wanted the job. He submitted his CV when Finidi was appointed and he was still an option when the NFF went searching for all the coaches you mentioned,” the official said.

The source further questioned claims that NFF president Ibrahim Musa Gusau’s decision to appoint Chelle was purely strategic, insisting the final choice was shaped more by availability than by design.

“If the president of the NFF Ibrahim Musa Gusua is claiming that it was his masterstroke decision because of how the team is playing then it’s not true. We all know who the NFF wanted but had to settle for Chelle who was available,” the official added.

Chelle famously guided Nigeria to finish at the 3rd place in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco.