Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has insisted that his decision to take the Nigerian job wasn’t driven by financial incentives, but by belief , belief in the potential of Nigeria’s footballing pedigree, and in his own ability to deliver something meaningful.
In a candid interview with journalist Osasu Obayiuwana, Chelle revealed he took a pay cut to lead the three-time African champions, underscoring his commitment to the project.
“When I came to Nigeria, I didn’t come here because of money. I was earning more in my last job,” Chelle said. “I came to Nigeria because this is a very big team and I want to prove something, to achieve something. I came here for the challenge. Nothing has changed about that.”
That challenge has since intensified.
Nigeria’s road to the 2026 FIFA World Cup is anything but smooth. The Super Eagles currently sit in a precarious position in their qualifying group, and with crucial fixtures looming , Rwanda visit Uyo next month, followed by a potentially defining showdown in South Africa , the pressure is mounting.
Chelle, however, remains unflappable.
“I know, quite well, that I can be fired after one match. This is the life in football,” he admitted. “But if they decide to do that, they must be prepared to pay up the remainder of my contract.”
It’s a frank reminder of the volatility that shadows national team management, especially in football-mad Nigeria, where expectations rarely dip and patience wears thin. Chelle’s tenure has already drawn scrutiny , results have been mixed, and fans are still waiting to see a consistent identity in the team’s performances.
Has he been effective so far? The jury is still out.
Chelle has shown flashes of tactical promise, and his squad selections hint at long-term thinking. But in international football, especially with World Cup qualification at stake, progress is measured in points, not potential.
What’s clear is this: Eric Chelle didn’t come to Nigeria for the comfort of a big paycheque. He came for legacy. Now, with decisive games on the horizon, it’s time to see whether belief alone can carry the Super Eagles to the global stage. All the best to the Super Eagles !!
