Chelle’s new Super Eagles demands: Ex-Real Madrid man hands NFF honest verdict

Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has received public backing from former Nigeria midfielder Mutiu Adepoju following widespread discussion surrounding the coach’s new contract requests, Afrik-Foot reports.

Chelle has been under heavy scrutiny after details of a document outlining his proposed contract terms were leaked online. The revelations triggered strong reactions among fans and analysts across Nigeria, particularly because the discussions come after a mixed spell in charge of the national team.

The Nigeria Football Federation appointed the Malian coach in January 2025 with two major objectives. He was tasked with helping Nigeria qualify for the 2026 World Cup despite a difficult start to the qualifying campaign, and also guiding the team to the final of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.

Nigeria ultimately fell short of those targets. South Africa secured the automatic World Cup qualification ticket, while DR Congo claimed the playoff spot ahead of the Super Eagles.

At AFCON 2025, Nigeria’s run ended in the semi-finals after defeat to hosts Morocco, although the team went on to win the bronze medal.

Despite missing the main targets, Chelle’s side impressed many observers. The Super Eagles played attacking football, entertained supporters and finished as the tournament’s highest-scoring team with 14 goals.

Chelle vs NFF: Adepoju urges compromise

Rather than dismissing Chelle after the tournament, the NFF opened talks over a contract extension. However, the situation became controversial when reports emerged that the coach submitted a list of 19 demands during negotiations.

One of the most debated requests was Chelle’s proposal for his monthly salary to rise from $50,000 to $130,000.

Adepoju believes the coach deserves another opportunity but insists negotiations must remain realistic for both parties.

“It’s going to be a good thing giving him another contract,” Adepoju told Brila FM as per The Telegraph.

“Let’s just forget what happened in the qualifiers. He did his best; he tried, but unfortunately, we couldn’t qualify for the World Cup.

“However, he has made up for it with the AFCON performance. From what I have seen, the team has changed the way they play and their overall approach.

“There is more structure, more organisation and better understanding among the players.

“You can see that the team is gradually building something solid. I think he deserves another contract so he can continue the work he has started.”

Former Real Madrid B star Adepoju added that any agreement must come through open discussions.

“If there are any new demands Eric Chelle is asking for, and what the NFF can afford, they need to sit at a round table, negotiate and discuss it properly.

“I believe every professional would want a salary increment.

“That is normal in football. But it must be realistic. The federation also has its limitations. They can meet in the middle and reach a compromise that works for both sides.”

Chelle remains firmly in charge of Nigeria and has already begun preparations for upcoming friendly matches against Iran and Jordan in March as negotiations continue behind the scenes.