The Nigeria Football Federation(NFF) has swiftly debunked rumors circulating about the potential contract termination of Super Eagles coach, Eric Chelle. Chelle, who was appointed in January on a two-year deal, subject to renewal, was reportedly considering a shock exit due to mixed results in March’s 2026 World Cup qualifiers.
However, a top NFF official has dismissed the rumors as “fake news.” “There is nothing like that,” the board member, who spoke on condition of anonymity, told The PUNCH. “I am a board member, and there has not been any issue raised about the contract of the coach. It is all fake news.”
The NFF has clarified that Chelle is currently en route to Europe, where he will meet with Nigerian players and attempt to convince eligible players to represent the country. Top on his agenda is a meeting with Arsenal wonderkid Ethan Nwaneri, whose chance of switching allegiance to Nigeria was boosted by an England snub during the last international break.
“The coach is going to be in Europe, and he is expected to meet some players. Nwaneri will not be left out as well,” our source added. The 17-year-old attacking midfielder remains eligible for both Nigeria and England, having represented England at youth level but not yet pledging allegiance to the senior team.
Chelle has overseen just two matches since his appointment, guiding Nigeria to a 2-0 victory over Rwanda in Kigali before a frustrating 1-1 draw with Zimbabwe in Uyo. With four matches remaining in the 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign, the Super Eagles still have a slim chance of making it to the tournament, depending on the results of other contenders.
As Chelle continues to work towards securing Nigeria’s spot in the 2026 World Cup, the NFF has reassured fans that the coach’s contract is not under threat. With the team’s fate hanging in the balance, Chelle’s focus on convincing eligible players to represent Nigeria could prove crucial in the remaining qualifiers.