'We can say what we want' - Eric Chelle says Super Eagles results will speak for him

Eric Chelle, the new Super Eagles coach, is optimistic about getting the desired result that would prove his doubters wrong about his ability to manage the team.

Since his announcement as the new gaffer of the Super Eagles, the Franco-Malian tactician has faced several criticisms, questioning his qualities to manage the team.

On Monday, the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) unveiled the 47-year-old as the new manager of the Super Eagles. 

The former Mali coach took over from Austin Eguavoen, who held the position in an interim capacity since the exit of Finidi George.

Following his appointment, some Nigerians have questioned his abilities to lead the team, while others have shown support and encouragement for the new coach.

The situation has increased the pressure on Chelle to deliver ahead of the 2026 Fifa World Cup qualifiers against Rwanda and Zimbabwe in March 2025.

Despite the criticism, Chelle remained confident and believed in his approach and tactical abilities to deliver the desired result to help overcome the pressure.

In an interview with RFI and reported via Matin Libre, Chelle remained unfazed by the pressure and criticism and expressed his readiness to implement his playing style in the Super Eagles.

"We play football, it's normal that there is pressure. It's normal that there is criticism. Wherever I go, in any club or team, there will be people who are fans of me and others who will hate me," he said.

"Today, I will work, I have certainties, I have my game plan in mind, and I will quickly put it in place. Now, my results and the team's results will speak for me. 

"So, we can say what we want, but, at the time we speak, the coach of the Nigerian national team, the Super Eagles, his name is Eric Chelle."

Currently, Nigeria is fifth in Group C of the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, securing three points from four games. 

With Nigeria in danger of missing out on the World Cup, Chelle's first objective would be to secure qualification for the tournament in the US, Canada, and Mexico.

Adeyemi Adewale

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