Chelle’s Move To Super Eagles Delayed By Contract To Algerian Club

The newly appointed coach of The Super Eagles, Eric Chelle, is reportedly still under contract with the Algerian club MC Oran. The club has not officially terminated his agreement, even though he has agreed to manage the Nigerian team.

Reports from Algeria state that Chelle still has a binding contract with MC Oran, originally intended to last for two years. Despite ongoing discussions about his future, Chelle is expected to travel to Nigeria soon to finalize his new role.

The Nigeria Football Federation appointed Chelle as the Super Eagles’ coach earlier this week, making him the third to take the position since Jose Peseiro’s exit in March 2024.

For now, Chelle remains committed to his responsibilities with MC Oran, as evidenced by his preparation for the team’s upcoming Algerian Cup round of 32 match against USM Setif. Just days ago, Chelle led the team in training and accompanied the squad on their journey to Setif for the match.

The club posted on Facebook, “The plane carrying MC Oran took off early this morning for the capital before a second flight directly to Setif. Coach Eric Chelle is with a 20-player roster.

“After a meeting held on Wednesday with Coach Eric Chelle, it was decided to postpone any decisions regarding his future until after the Republic Cup match against Setif to maintain the team’s stability and focus for this important game. Coach Chelle will supervise the team for this encounter as usual, and a final meeting will be scheduled after his return to Oran.”

Chelle’s departure could leave MC Oran in a challenging position. The club is currently ranked 10th in the league and is already searching for a new technical director. Chelle only joined the team in October 2024 after taking over from Youssef Bouzidi.

Before working with MC Oran, Chelle managed the Mali national team until June 2024. During his tenure, he led them to the quarter-finals of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations in Ivory Coast. Mali came close to advancing further but were defeated by the host nation in stoppage time despite having the lead. Chelle’s record with Mali was impressive, boasting 14 wins, five draws, and only three losses across 22 matches. Notably, this included a 2-0 victory over Nigeria in a friendly game just before his current appointment with the Super Eagles.

As Chelle transitions to his new role, he faces significant challenges. The Super Eagles have six critical matches in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers starting in March. Additionally, Chelle will oversee the Super Eagles B team in the 2024 African Nations Championship, taking place from February 1 to 28 across Tanzania, Kenya, and Uganda.
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