Fresh uncertainty has emerged over the future of Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle following conflicting reports about the status of his contract with the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF).
The development comes barely two weeks after Chairman of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Shehu Dikko, announced that the Franco-Malian tactician would remain in charge of the three-time African champions after all parties had reportedly agreed to improved contract terms.
Speaking on June 23 at the NSC headquarters in Abuja, Dikko also disclosed that Chelle had been given the additional responsibility of managing Nigeria’s U-23 national team as preparations begin for the football event of the 2028 Olympic Games.
However, BBC Sport journalist Oluwashina Okeleji has disputed the claims, insisting that no contract extension has been agreed between Chelle and the NFF.
In a post on his official X account on Sunday, Okeleji said reports suggesting the coach had signed a new deal stemmed from comments made by the NSC chairman rather than a concluded agreement.
“Éric Chelle has not extended his contract with Nigeria and reports to the contrary follow cursory comments by the NSC chairman,” he wrote.
Okeleji further claimed that the NFF is facing growing competition to retain Chelle, with several African national teams and clubs in North Africa reportedly monitoring his contractual situation.
According to him, Chelle’s current contract is due to expire in January.
“The NFF face competition from a host of African countries and North African clubs eager to sign the Franco-Malian coach. Deal ends in January,” he added.
The journalist also criticised what he described as the premature announcement of an agreement before negotiations had been finalised.
“Not every conversation deserves a microphone. Some people rush to the media before the facts are settled, only to end up explaining themselves later. The best officials know the difference between progress and completion. The rest usually find themselves issuing clarifications,” Okeleji stated.
The uncertainty surrounding Chelle’s future has also fuelled speculation abroad. According to reports by French outlet Foot Mercato, the Super Eagles coach has emerged as a potential candidate for the Algeria national team as the North Africans reportedly consider replacing Vladimir Petković following their exit from the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Chelle is familiar with Algerian football, having previously managed MC Oran before taking over as Nigeria’s head coach.
With the qualifiers for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations approaching, attention is expected to remain on the NFF and the NSC as stakeholders await official clarification on Chelle’s contractual status and long-term future with the Super Eagles.
