Moses Simon delivers blunt Super Eagles verdict on Eric Chelle’s new deal
Retold by Oddsrama · 11 July 2026
Moses Simon, the Super Eagles' first vice-captain, has thrown his weight behind Eric Chelle's new contract extension through 2030, signalling strong player backing for the Malian tactician. Speaking via the Telegraph, Simon praised both the NFF and National Sports Commission for showing confidence in Chelle, emphasising that the squad has developed a genuine bond with their coach. The winger described Chelle as a fatherly figure who loves his players and inspires them to give everything on the pitch — a sentiment that matters when building team cohesion around a new regime.
Chelle's fresh deal marks a significant vote of confidence after he guided Nigeria to a third-place finish at the 2025 AFCON in Morocco. His monthly salary has doubled from $50,000 to $100,000, and the federation now covers assistant coach salaries directly. Beyond cash, he's secured a private SUV with chauffeur, secured accommodation with steady power, a furnished analysis office, and family flight tickets. His remit has also expanded: he'll oversee the U-23s' push for the 2028 Olympics while continuing to supervise the home-based Super Eagles B squad ahead of CHAN.
Yet Chelle's contract extension brings mounting pressure. He must navigate a tricky 2027 AFCON qualifier alongside Madagascar, Guinea-Bissau, and hosts Tanzania — where only the group winner advances. Former internationals have flagged concerns about juggling multiple teams, while the technical demands loom large: shoring up midfield creativity beyond Alex Iwobi, finding left-back competition for Bruno Onyemaechi, settling the goalkeeper question, and recruiting strike support for Victor Osimhen. For betting purposes, Nigeria's qualification odds in that AFCON group will reflect how well Chelle addresses these gaps before September's qualifiers kick off.
Simon's vocal endorsement carries weight among the player base, but results speak loudest. Chelle must prove the investment justifies the doubled salary and expanded scope, or questions will resurface fast.
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