Veteran football analyst Toyin Ibitoye has expressed support for extending the contract of Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle, stating that the tactician has shown clear signs of building a well-organised and competitive squad capable of challenging for future Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) titles.
Ibitoye noted that although Nigeria fell short of winning the last AFCON trophy, the team’s performance, tactical approach, and organisation earned praise from football followers.
“Nigeria did not win the tournament, but the football that Nigeria played won the hearts of many people,” Ibitoye said.
“What you want to see is how well they played, their discipline on and off the pitch, because sometimes the element of luck decides who eventually wins a tournament.”
He explained that judging by the team’s showing at the tournament, the Malian coach has justified conversations about a possible contract extension.
“On the strength of what we saw in the last tournament, Coach Eric Chelle has done enough to merit discussions around renewing his contract.”
The former Super Eagles media officer (2015–2020) also pointed out that the national team has suffered from instability caused by constant managerial changes. According to him, this lack of continuity played a role in Nigeria’s disappointing World Cup qualifying campaign. He added that keeping Chelle in charge could help the team build on recent improvements and deliver stronger performances.
“We had about three different coaches handling the Super Eagles during the World Cup qualifiers, and, of course, the results were not good,” he stated.
“If we had been consistent and maintained the kind of results we have seen since Eric Chelle came on board, I am sure the World Cup ticket would have been secured a long time ago.”
Speaking about the AFCON competitions scheduled between 2026 and 2028, Ibitoye expressed confidence that Chelle could lead Nigeria to success if the right preparation is put in place and fortune favours the team.
“I believe that if Eric Chelle continues the kind of work we saw in the last AFCON, there is a strong possibility, with luck on our side, good preparation, and everything working together in our favour, that Nigeria can win one or even two of the upcoming tournaments.”
Meanwhile, Chelle is said to have asked for an increase in his monthly pay from $50,000 to $130,000, a move aimed at improving his operational capacity and strengthening his backroom staff. However, he has dismissed claims that he issued any ultimatum about leaving his position, instead stressing his dedication to the national side as they prepare for upcoming friendly matches against Iran and Jordan.
