The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has firmly dismissed reports suggesting that Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle is on the verge of contract termination.
Amid growing speculations about his future following mixed results in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, the NFF has labeled the claims as “fake news.”
Chelle, who was appointed in January on a two-year contract with an option for renewal, was rumored to be considering a shocking exit.
Reports claimed that the uncertainty surrounding his role prompted an emergency meeting within the federation.
However, a senior NFF board member has denied any such development, stating that no discussions concerning the coach’s contract have taken place.
NFF Dismisses Contract Termination Claims
A source speaking on the condition of anonymity, an NFF executive committee member debunked the rumors, emphasizing that Chelle remains fully committed to his role.
“There is nothing like that. I am a board member, and there has not been any issue raised about the contract of the coach. It is all fake news,” the official stated.
Instead of contemplating his departure, Chelle is currently on a scheduled trip to Europe.
The visit is part of his ongoing efforts to strengthen the Super Eagles squad by assessing potential new players and reinforcing relationships with current team members.
Coach Chelle to Meet Nwaneri and Other Prospects in Europe
During his time in Europe, Chelle is expected to hold discussions with several Nigerian-eligible players, one of the most notable being Arsenal’s 17-year-old wonderkid, Ethan Nwaneri.
The young attacking midfielder has been on the radar of the NFF as they look to convince him to switch his international allegiance from England to Nigeria.
Nwaneri, who has represented England at youth levels, was notably left out of the recent international break selections, further fueling speculations that he could be open to a switch. With the increasing competition for his services, Chelle’s meeting with him could play a pivotal role in determining the youngster’s future on the international stage.
“The coach is going to be in Europe and he is expected to meet some players. Nwaneri will not be left out as well,” the source confirmed.
Super Eagles’ World Cup Qualification Hopes Still Alive Chelle has managed just two games since taking charge, leading Nigeria to a 2-0 victory over Rwanda in Kigali before a frustrating 1-1 draw against Zimbabwe in Uyo.
The mixed results have put the Super Eagles in a challenging position in their World Cup qualification campaign.
Nigeria currently sits fourth in Group C, making their chances of securing a spot in the 2026 World Cup uncertain.
However, with four matches remaining in the qualifiers, hope is not completely lost, as their fate could still be influenced by the results of other teams.
As Chelle continues to scout for new talents and strengthen the squad, all eyes will be on his next set of selections and tactical approaches when Nigeria resumes its qualification campaign.
The coming months will be crucial for both the coach and the Super Eagles as they aim to navigate their way back to the biggest stage in world football.
Achieving this feat is not impossible if Chelle can instill greater tactical discipline and enhance team cohesion. By refining the team’s structure, improving communication, and ensuring players understand their roles, he can maximize their potential.
Stronger teamwork, strategic adaptability, and better coordination on the field will be crucial in turning Nigeria’s World Cup qualification hopes around and securing positive results in the remaining matches.
With the NFF backing Chelle and dismissing rumors of his departure, the focus now shifts to ensuring that Nigeria can secure the necessary results to keep their World Cup hopes alive.
