Nigeria football figures criticize Eric Chelle dual coaching role

Former Nigerian midfielders Ogenyi Onazi and Garba Lawal have expressed concern regarding the Nigeria Football Federation’s decision to have Eric Chelle manage both the senior Super Eagles and the U23 Olympic Eagles.

The dual role presents a significant scheduling conflict during the November international window. The Super Eagles are scheduled to play Tanzania in 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers on November 13 and 17, while the Olympic Eagles face DR Congo in U23 AFCON qualifying on those same dates.

Onazi argued that Chelle needs to focus exclusively on the senior team to address existing challenges, noting Nigeria’s current position in Group L of the AFCON qualifiers. Lawal described the arrangement as a potential distraction that could compromise the preparations and success of both national squads.