Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle has apologized to Nigerians again for the team's failure to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. He also expressed his wish to stay in charge beyond his current contract, according to PUNCH Sports Extra.
Chelle has been coaching the Super Eagles since January 2025. With about six months left in his current contract, his future is unclear. His agent and the Nigeria Football Federation have not yet reached an agreement on extending the deal.
The Franco-Malian coach started with Nigeria's World Cup qualifying campaign in March 2025. He won four matches and drew two, helping the team reach the African play-offs. Unfortunately, they lost to DR Congo in penalties.
While dealing with the contract situation, Chelle is also rebuilding the Super Eagles. He reflected on Nigeria's World Cup disappointment after leading the team to win the Unity Cup title in London last Saturday.
“I try to do my job and I want to say thank you for all the support. If I have some time, I will give everything for this national team. Every day I try to improve like a man and like a coach too,” Chelle said after Nigeria's 3-0 win against Jamaica in the final.
“I want to say sorry again because we didn’t go to the World Cup and that we didn’t win the AFCON.”
The 48-year-old is currently with the team in Warsaw. They will face Poland in an international friendly on Wednesday. After that, they will head to Portugal for their last game of this international window.
Chelle has confirmed that talks are ongoing about his contract with the NFF. He stated that he is focused on his coaching duties and upcoming matches.
He reportedly wants a monthly salary of $130,000 along with other work conditions. However, sources within the NFF said the federation is offering $100,000 per month.
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