Nigeria’s preparations for upcoming international competitions have been thrown into uncertainty after Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle reportedly submitted a detailed 19-point proposal to the Nigeria Football Federation as part of negotiations over a contract extension.
The document, presented on January 22, 2026, arrived shortly after Chelle guided the national side to a third-place finish at the Africa Cup of Nations, a campaign widely seen as evidence of his positive influence on the team’s tactical structure, attacking fluidity, and confidence.
Despite that progress, Chelle is understood to be seeking stronger guarantees before committing his long-term future, amid growing interest from rival national associations and reported links to club opportunities abroad, including speculation involving Olympique de Marseille of Ligue 1.
Central to the negotiations is a proposed monthly salary of $130,000, intended to cover the coach, his technical crew, and his personal assistant. Yet financial terms represent only part of the discussion. Chelle is also requesting structural reforms aimed at improving scouting, preparation, logistics, and professional standards within the national-team system.
Several of his conditions address long-standing administrative issues that have historically affected the squad, including delayed wage payments, restricted scouting access, and external influence in team selection. Observers say the proposal signals a clear push for full technical autonomy and a more stable working environment capable of sustaining elite-level performance.
Among the key provisions in the submission are requests for official accommodation with guaranteed power supply, a chauffeur-driven security vehicle, modern analytical facilities, travel privileges for family, unrestricted scouting rights at home and abroad, formal contracts for staff, and a strict salary payment schedule. He is also seeking authority over friendly-match planning, youth-development initiatives, and regular coordination meetings with all national-team coaches.
While some of the demands align with standard expectations for high-profile international managers, others could test the federation’s financial and operational capacity. That creates a delicate dilemma: Chelle has restored optimism and competitive credibility, yet satisfying every condition may strain resources.
For Nigerian football authorities, the outcome of the negotiations could prove pivotal. Securing Chelle’s signature would ensure continuity and build on recent progress, but failure to reach agreement might invite competing offers from abroad.
Talks remain ongoing, and until a resolution is reached, the direction of Nigeria’s national-team project hangs in the balance.
ELIJAH ADEYEMI
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