“I’m asking myself” – Chelle explains Super Eagles salary request, leaked contract details

Eric Chelle has moved to calm growing uncertainty around his future as head coach of the Nigeria national football team, Afrik-Foot reports.

The Super Eagles boss insist he remains fully focused on the job despite contract negotiations and speculation about his position.

The coach still has one year left on his current deal, but discussions about extending his stay began after the National Sports Commission reportedly instructed the Nigeria Football Federation to open renewal talks.

Negotiations slowed when details of Chelle’s proposal surfaced in the media. Reports claimed the coach demanded several improvements to his contract, including a monthly salary of €130,000 and additional working conditions.

Speaking in an interview shared on his social media page, Chelle confirmed that the circulated document was genuine but expressed surprise that it became public.

“At the moment we’re speaking, of course I am still the coach of Nigeria,” he explained. “I still have one year left on my contract. In fact, just yesterday I was in a meeting by video with my technical staff to work on the squad list for the March matches. So yes, I am still the coach of Nigeria.”

The Malian tactician also questioned how the proposal reached journalists after being privately submitted to the federation.

“Today, if I’m being honest, I don’t really know. The first question I ask myself is how this document could have ended up in the media. That’s the question I’m asking myself.”

Chelle clarified that the salary figure mentioned was requested in dollars rather than euros, adding that the payment would cover the wages of his backroom staff. He suggested negotiations remain open and indicated flexibility if both sides reach a compromise.

Chelle dismisses Marseille rumours

Alongside the contract debate, Chelle was linked with French club Olympique de Marseille following the departure of coach Roberto De Zerbi. However, he firmly denied holding any discussions with the Ligue 1 side, who later appointed Habib Beye.

“I have had absolutely no contact with the Olympique de Marseille management.”

Since taking charge, Chelle has overseen an encouraging period for Nigeria.

The team won the invitational Unity Cup in London shortly after his appointment and followed it up with a strong showing at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.

At the AFCON, the Super Eagles claimed bronze after defeating Egypt in the third-place match. Nigeria scored 14 goals and lost only once, a penalty shoot-out defeat to hosts Morocco in the semi-final.

Attention now shifts to preparations for another four-nation invitational tournament in March, where Nigeria will face Iran, Jordan and Costa Rica.