Algeria approaches coach Eric Chelle despite Nigeria contract

The Algerian Football Federation has re‑opened talks with Franco‑Malian coach Eric Chelle about taking charge of the men’s national team after Algeria’s early exit from the 2026 World Cup. Chelle, who currently manages Nigeria’s Super Eagles and also oversees the U‑23 side, is under a contract that runs until January 2027 and has recently been extended with a salary increase to $100,000 per month.

Chelle’s profile rose after guiding Nigeria to the quarter‑finals of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations and following a successful spell with Mali and a stint at Algerian club MC Oran. Algeria, eliminated in the Round of 32 by Switzerland, is exploring candidates to replace Vladimir Petkovic, and Chelle emerged as a leading option despite earlier reports that he had been dropped from consideration. Any move would require negotiations between the Algerian and Nigerian federations, as Nigeria has signalled a long‑term commitment to the coach.

The contact highlights the thin pool of high‑profile African coaches and underscores the rivalry between the two North‑African nations in shaping their football futures.