Moses Simon Supports Chelle as Eagles Coach

Eric Chelle. Photo: Super Eagles

Super Eagles winger Moses Simon has shown support for Eric Chelle to keep his role as the national team coach. He praised the Franco-Malian coach for his leadership and the unity he has brought to the team. This comes as reports suggest that Chelle is likely to get a contract extension, according to PUNCH Sports Extra.

Chelle was first hired on a two-year contract and is now in his second year. His deal is set to end at the close of this year. But the Nigeria Football Federation and the National Sports Commission are said to be finalizing a new deal that will extend his stay.

According to PUNCH Sports Extra, the new agreement could see Chelle earning $100,000 each month. He will also take charge of the Olympic Eagles as part of a larger technical restructuring plan.

This long-term plan is said to run until 2030. It aims for Nigeria to win the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations and qualify for the 2030 FIFA World Cup.

Simon spoke about Chelle’s influence, saying the coach has gained the trust and dedication of the players through his management style and determination.

“Of course, Eric Chelle is a good person. He’s a good man. He deserves it for many years. We haven’t had a coach that hasn’t lost a game like this. We lost just one game against Portugal. He has done very well. He brings all the teams together,” Simon told Urban Dwell Sport.

“He’s like a father to everybody and you can see in his interviews he loves war when playing. So, he loves his players to go all in. He’s ready to fight for his players. That’s why the boys are ready to do everything for the nation, for the coach and for themselves. So I’m happy he is staying.”

Chelle has had a positive start as the Super Eagles coach. He has led the team to an unbeaten record in competitive matches. He has also helped boost confidence within the squad after a tough time for the three-time African champions.

His time as coach has brought a stronger team identity and better teamwork. Several senior players have publicly shown trust in his methods as Nigeria gets ready for the 2027 AFCON qualifiers.