Eric Chelle, the head coach of Nigeria’s Super Eagles, has emphasized his commitment to integrating home-based players from the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) into the national team, highlighting their quality and potential to compete at the international level.
Speaking at a press conference in London on May 26, 2025, after the Unity Cup tournament win over Ghana, Chelle, a 47-year-old Franco-Malian appointed in January 2025, detailed his strategy to scout and develop local talent to bolster Nigeria’s campaign for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. His approach marks a significant shift, as he becomes the first non-Nigerian African to coach the three-time African champions.
Chelle, who previously led Mali to the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) quarter-finals, selected ten NPFL players for the Unity Cup, a four-nation friendly tournament featuring Nigeria, Ghana, Jamaica, and Trinidad & Tobago. Chelle praised their intensity and desire, stating he personally scouted them during NPFL matches in Nigeria. He also defended his decision to recall veteran captain Ahmed Musa, now with Kano Pillars, emphasizing that the 32-year-old’s 108 caps and experience could inspire younger players, though Musa must prove himself to secure a permanent spot.
The coach’s philosophy centers on attacking football, promising to instill a goal-scoring mentality to address Nigeria’s struggles in World Cup qualifiers, where they sit fifth in Group C with three points from four matches. His appointment, ratified by the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) on January 7, 2025, followed a turbulent period with interim coaches and failed high-profile hires. Despite criticism from former players like Nwankwo Kanu, who favored a Nigerian coach, Chelle’s 14 wins in 22 matches with Mali and his disciplined approach have earned NFF support.
Chelle’s focus on NPFL players aims to reduce reliance on Europe-based stars like Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman, fostering a balanced squad. He has also reached out to dual-nationality players, such as Newcastle’s Jacob Murphy, to strengthen the team. The strategy has sparked debate, with some praising the inclusion of local talent and others questioning their readiness for high-stakes matches. Chelle’s tenure, under a two-year contract with a possible one-year extension, is pivotal for Nigeria’s World Cup aspirations, with his vision of unity and aggression shaping the Super Eagles’ identity.