Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has dismissed claims that his decision to manage Nigeria was financially motivated, insisting that he turned down a higher-paying role to accept the challenge.
Chelle, who took charge of the team in January after leaving Algerian side MC Oran, is reportedly earning \$50,000 monthly but says his focus is on building success rather than making money.
Before his appointment, the Franco-Malian guided Mali to the quarter-finals of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations in Ivory Coast, losing 2-1 to the hosts after extra time despite leading until the final minute.
Seven months into his tenure, Chelle’s record includes one win and a draw in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers. However, his recent outing at the 2024 CHAN ended in disappointment as Nigeria crashed out in the group stage – suffering a 1-0 defeat to Senegal, a 4-0 loss to Sudan, and salvaging a 2-0 win over Congo.
Speaking to UK-based journalist Osasu Obayiuwana in Tanzania, Chelle admitted he is aware of the pressure surrounding his position.
“I know I could be sacked after just one match. That’s how football works,” he said. “If that happens, they’ll have to pay my contract.
“I didn’t come here for a paycheck. I was earning more before. Nigeria is a big football nation, and I came here to achieve something. That’s still my goal.”
Chelle also revealed limited interaction with Nigeria Football Federation officials since his appointment, stating he has been “mostly left alone” to do the job.
Nigeria resumes its World Cup qualifying campaign in September against Rwanda in Uyo and South Africa in Bloemfontein, before the 2025 AFCON in Morocco later in the year.
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