Chelle confirms Sunday arrival as he bids farewell to Algerian club MC Oran

By Olaolu Joseph

Newly appointed Super Eagles coach, Eric Sekou Chelle, has confirmed his arrival in Nigeria on Sunday.

The Malian coach revealed that leaving his current role as head coach of MC Oran in Algeria was a tough decision.

Chelle disclosed that the Algerian club was initially reluctant to release him, but he managed to convince them to allow him to take on a bigger challenge in his coaching career.

It was an emotional moment as Chelle officially bade farewell to MC Oran after leading the team to a 1-0 victory over ESM Sétif in the Algerian Cup.

Barring any last-minute changes, Chelle is expected to be unveiled as the Super Eagles head coach this week.

In what turned out to be his final game in charge, Chelle expressed heartfelt gratitude to the club, its supporters, and the city of Oran.

In his farewell message, the Malian said, “This is my last match, and I will be in Nigeria on Sunday,” Chelle confirmed.

“MC Oran officials wanted me to stay, but I cannot refuse the opportunity to coach Nigeria—Africa’s best team and one of the best in the world. I deeply thank the supporters of Al Hamrawa, the people of Oran, and Algerians. Al Hamrawa will always have a special place in my heart.”

His appointment is seen as a significant step for Nigeria as they aim to solidify their dominance in African football and beyond.

Chelle, 47, becomes the first non-Nigerian African to assume the role of Super Eagles head coach. He caught the attention of Nigeria’s football officials after leading Mali to a victory over Nigeria last year.

The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has given Chelle an enormous mandate: to ensure Nigeria qualifies for next year’s FIFA World Cup.