Chelle: Opinions would still be divided even if Guardiola were appointed – Ikpeba

By Olaolu Joseph

Former Super Eagles winger, Victor Nosa Ikpeba, has said he is not surprised by the divided opinions generated by the appointment of Eric Sekou Chelle as the Super Eagles’ head coach.

The former AS Monaco forward, while commenting on the ongoing debate surrounding Chelle’s selection by the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), expressed confidence that the Malian coach can lead the Super Eagles to secure a World Cup ticket.

Ikpeba remarked, “The appointment of a coach for the Super Eagles will always generate a lot of interest.

“This is one of the biggest countries in Africa, and that’s the passion that comes with the national team.

“Even if we had appointed Pep Guardiola, the Manchester City coach, there would still be complaints. If there are no arguments, there won’t be success,” said the left-footed winger in an interview.

Throwing his weight behind Chelle’s appointment, Ikpeba called for unity and support for the former Malian national team handler. He acknowledged the inevitable scrutiny that accompanies any Super Eagles coaching decision.

Recognizing the divided opinions, Ikpeba emphasized the need to rally behind Chelle to secure Nigeria’s qualification for the 2026 World Cup in the USA, Canada, and Mexico.

“A decision has been made by the NFF, and we have to support it. Eric Chelle is a young coach who will succeed with our support. We’re in a tight corner in the World Cup qualifying campaign, and we have to support him to get the best out of the players, who are the main actors in this situation,” he said.

Ikpeba expressed optimism about Nigeria’s chances under Chelle’s leadership, provided he receives the necessary backing.