“I Know the Expectations of Nigerians” – New Super Eagles Coach, Chelles

 

By Aiyeku Timothy

 

Newly appointed Super Eagles coach, Eric Sekou Chelles, has assured Nigerians that he understands the expectations placed on him and is determined to deliver success.

Speaking after his unveiling on Monday at the Media Centre of the MKO Abiola National Stadium in Abuja, Chelles, who signed a two-year contract, expressed excitement about his new role and promised to bring his best to the job.

“This is an amazing job for me,” said Chelles, the 37th coach in the history of Nigeria’s senior national team. “Nigeria has a great history, from Amunike, Amokachi, Taribo West, to the new generation—Ademola Lookman, Osimhen, and others. I love attacking football. Football is about scoring goals, and I want to win. I came to Nigeria to work, and I am ready to do just that.”

 

The former defender highlighted his deep connection to Nigerian football, revealing that the Super Eagles have been his favorite team since his childhood. “The Nigerian team is more than a team. When I was young, this was my favorite team. I watched their matches, and I know a little about the history. I want to put in place my game project and work closely with my players as a big brother.”

Chelles emphasized the importance of creating a strong team spirit and fostering a winning mentality.

“The state of mind is key. You need to build up a team with great spirit. I plan to implement great projects around this team. I will focus on each game as it comes, and with that, we can be ambitious.”

Chelles, who boasts over 100 professional matches as a player, said his experience as a leader on and off the pitch has prepared him for this role. “I was a football professional. I played over 100 matches, and I was a leader. I know the expectations of Nigerian football,” he said.

The unveiling ceremony was attended by notable figures, including Director General of the National Sports Commission Shehu Dikko, NFF President Ibrahim Gusau, Senior Special Assistant to President Bola Tinubu on Grassroots Sports Anthony Adeyinka Adeboye, NFF Technical Director Augustine Eguavoen, and Deputy Secretary of the NFF Dr. Emmanuel Ikpeme, among others.

 

Chelles now faces the monumental task of leading the Super Eagles to success, with his first challenge being the World Cup qualifiers in March.