Eric Chelle's appointment as manager of the Super Eagles has sparked numerous questions, with answers only time and performance can provide.
The 47-year-old, appointed after an extended search for a substantive coach, was met with widespread skepticism from the outset.
While Chelle has confidently expressed why he believes he is the right man to lead the Nigerian team, critics and doubters have been equally vocal in sharing their reservations.
Among the most pressing concerns is the calibre of players he intends to call up, especially given the high stakes of his initial fixtures with the Super Eagles.
Official! Eric Chelle is @NGSuperEagles 37th manager #soarsupereagles #naija4thewin #letsdoitagain #ericchelle pic.twitter.com/U9ZcwLDx1q
— 🇳🇬 Super Eagles (@NGSuperEagles) January 13, 2025
Amid this wave of criticism and scepticism, a report has surfaced shedding light on how the Franco-Malian tactician plans to approach the team selection process for Nigeria’s national team.
How Chelle will select Super Eagles players
According to a report by media outlet, Score Nigeria, a source close to the new Super Eagles manager has detailed that the selection process for the upcoming international window will be closely scrutinized and strictly based on merit.
The source emphasized that the 47-year-old tactician is committed to upholding the highest standards of professionalism when selecting players to represent Nigeria. "He has made it very clear that he alone is in charge of the team.
He invites the players, and he decides who starts for his team,” the source said.
“I recall during his time in Mali, he clashed with a top federation official over team selection, which eventually led to his dismissal by the federation.”
The source also described Chelle as a strict disciplinarian.
“Discipline is the watchword for Eric,” the source added.
“All players must adhere to camp rules, and anyone who doesn’t will face fines. Camp discipline is a top priority, and Eric is a taskmaster.”
This report subtly dispels speculation that Coach Chelle was appointed as a scapegoat by the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) in case the Super Eagles fail to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Chelle faces the daunting task of securing World Cup qualification for Nigeria, with his immediate focus set on the crucial clash against Rwanda in Kigali on March 19.
