The Director General of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Bukola Olopade, has dismissed reports suggesting that Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle could be on the verge of leaving his role amid interest from Tunisia, Gabon and Angola.
Speculation over Chelle’s future has intensified in recent days following claims that several African football federations are monitoring his situation with a view to luring him away from Nigeria. The rumours were further fueled by the fact that the Malian tactician has less than one year remaining on his current contract with the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF).
However, Olopade played down the reports, insisting that there is no immediate concern regarding Chelle’s commitment to the Super Eagles. He reaffirmed the NSC’s confidence in the coach and stressed that the focus remains on supporting the technical crew to deliver on Nigeria’s football objectives.
Chelle, who was appointed to lead the Super Eagles as part of efforts to stabilise the national team and restore consistency, has overseen a period of transition marked by tactical adjustments and squad rebuilding. His work has reportedly attracted attention beyond Nigeria’s borders, but officials maintain that this is a reflection of his growing reputation rather than an indication of an impending departure.
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Sources within the NFF also suggest that discussions regarding Chelle’s contractual future will be handled internally and at the appropriate time, with no urgency to respond to external speculation.
For now, both the NSC and NFF appear aligned in their stance that Eric Chelle remains firmly in charge of the Super Eagles, as preparations continue for upcoming international commitments.