Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle warned about Angola offer

The Nigeria Football Federation has moved quickly to shut down growing talk around the future of Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle, Afrik-Foot reports.

According to Legit, the NFF warned Chelle not to entertain approaches from other countries, especially a possible switch to Angola.

Chelle, who took charge of Nigeria in January 2025, has recently been linked with several roles across Africa and Europe. Reports even suggested interest from clubs such as Olympique de Marseille, while the coach had earlier spoken openly about his long-term dream of managing giants like Real Madrid.

No Nigerian will pass this without dropping a ❤ for Eric Chelle

Best Coach nigeria ever had for over 30years pic.twitter.com/wuSBmM8Xep

— Omah of Arsenal (@Omahh_11) January 5, 2026

But NFF officials are said to be unimpressed by the speculation, stressing that Chelle remains under contract and must remain focused on his job with Nigeria.

The federation pointed out that Chelle steadied the team after a difficult period that followed the exits of José Peseiro and Finidi George. Under his guidance, Nigeria pushed through a tough World Cup qualifying group and later enjoyed a strong run at the Africa Cup of Nations.

NFF draws a clear line over Angola interest

The firm warning comes after Chelle’s name surfaced as a possible replacement for the sacked Angola coach, following the country’s disappointing AFCON outing.

An NFF source made it clear that walking away would come at a heavy cost.”I know Chelle is not daft to think that he can walk away from his current contract with the NFF.

“He is still the Super Eagles coach and can’t negotiate with any team by the laws of the game. If he decides to leave then he will have to pay for breaching his contract.”

Nigeria’s football leaders believe now is not the time for distractions, especially with major decisions pending at FIFA over World Cup qualification matters.

On the pitch, Chelle has already delivered silverware, lifting the Unity Cup in London, and led Nigeria to a bronze medal finish at the Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco. The Super Eagles beat Egypt on penalties in the third-place playoff after earlier clashes with DR Congo and hosts Morocco.

NFF General Secretary Mohammed Sanusi has also sounded confident about Nigeria’s case with FIFA, insisting the federation would not have gone this far without strong evidence.

Players remain hopeful too, with midfielder Alex Iwobi admitting the squad is closely following developments.

With a year still left on Chelle’s current deal, and talks already underway over an extension, the message from Nigerian football authorities is for Chelle to stay committed, ignore outside offers, and finish the job with the Super Eagles.