Super Eagles: ‘Not just tactics’ – England-based Nigerian coach on how Chelle can succeed
Retold by Oddsrama · 4 July 2026
Eric Chelle has secured a fresh deal as Super Eagles boss, and his paycheck has doubled from $50,000 to $100,000 monthly. But the Franco-Malian tactician's responsibilities have expanded just as much—he's now overseeing both the senior team and Nigeria's U-23 squad. It's a vote of confidence from the NFF, yet the real question lingers: is money and a contract extension enough to turn the Eagles' fortunes around?
Ayodeji-Ifeoluwa Aleshinloye, a UEFA-B licensed coach based in England, believes Chelle has the pedigree to succeed, but warns that tactics alone won't cut it. Speaking to Flashscore, the experienced coach stressed that chemistry, trust, and patience matter as much as any formation or game plan. He's backing Chelle, but with a caveat—the NFF must create the right environment and resist the urge to meddle in football decisions. Aleshinloye reckons if the federation stays hands-off and provides genuine stability, Chelle can build a coherent team identity and establish a proper development pathway from grassroots to the national team.
The litmus test comes in September when Nigeria kicks off their AFCON 2027 qualifying campaign. Chelle's ability to settle quickly and show early results will set the tone for his tenure. From a betting angle, the Eagles' odds in qualification markets will hinge heavily on whether the team demonstrates improved cohesion and tactical discipline in those opening fixtures. Patience and consistency are Aleshinloye's key messages—virtues that Nigerian football fans and the NFF have sometimes lacked in recent years. Whether this time is different depends on what unfolds after the ink dries.
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