Eric Chelle: Algeria FAF make big coaching decision amid links to Super Eagles boss

Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle is no longer in consideration for the Algeria job, as the Algerian Football Federation plans to offer Vladimir Petkovic a contract extension, Afrik-Foot reports.

​Since the conclusion of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (2025 AFCON), speculation has been rife linking Chelle with various high-profile roles.

The Franco-Malian tactician has been associated with vacancies in Angola, Tunisia, and Algeria, and was even linked to French Ligue 1 giants Marseille.

​However, the Marseille links were taken off the table last week following the club’s appointment of Habib Beye.

Despite this, speculations regarding a move to another African powerhouse have continued. Countries like Algeria, Tunisia, and Angola emerged as credible destinations after underperforming at AFCON 2025—a tournament where Nigeria notably defeated both Tunisia and Algeria in outstanding fashion.

With the 2026 World Cup approaching, it was widely believed these nations sought Chelle’s services to replicate the exciting brand of football he instilled in the Super Eagles.

​Why the Algeria Move is Off the Table For Eric Chelle

​According to reports from Algerie Football Media, the FAF is preparing a contract extension for Vladimir Petkovic that would see him remain at the helm until 2028.

🚨🇩🇿 PETKOVIC VA PROLONGER JUSQU’EN 2028 ! ⏳

Vladimir Petkovic devrait signer en mars un nouveau contrat avec la FAF, après un accord trouvé avec Walid Sadi. ✅

La décision serait déjà actée, il ne resterait que quelques détails à finaliser.

🗞️@winwinallsports pic.twitter.com/8dCKxe4ma0

— Algérie Football Média 🇩🇿 (@DZFOOTBALLDZ) February 22, 2026

​This move is a significant vote of confidence, ensuring Petkovic will lead the team through the FIFA World Cup later this year and the 2027 AFCON. Consequently, the door for Eric Chelle to take over in Algiers seems to have been firmly shut.

​Uncertainty Remains for the Super Eagles

​Despite the Algeria option fading, Eric Chelle’s future with the Nigeria national team remains a subject of debate.

With only one year left on his current contract, his long-term future is still in the balance, and it is likely he remains open to better offers.

​Earlier last week, Chelle reportedly presented a list of demands to the Nigeria Football Federation as a prerequisite for signing a new deal.

As of now, no agreement has been reached. Even with the Algeria distraction removed, the NFF must act decisively to secure his signature if they want him to remain focused on the Super Eagles’ upcoming challenges.

Entering another search for a coach at this time would be like taking a few steps backwards, given how much the Super Eagles have improved under Chelle.