Super Eagles winger, Moses Simon, has thrown his support behind Eric Chelle remaining Nigeria’s head coach, applauding the Franco-Malian for fostering unity within the squad as reports suggest he is close to signing a contract extension.
The Punch reported that Chelle, who took over on an initial two-year contract, is currently in the final year of that agreement, which is due to expire later this year.
However, the Nigeria Football Federation and the National Sports Commission are reportedly putting the finishing touches to a new deal that will extend his stay with the three-time African champions.
As earlier reported, the proposed contract is expected to earn Chelle a monthly salary of $100,000 and also place him in charge of the Olympic Eagles as part of a wider restructuring of Nigeria’s national team coaching setup.
The long-term arrangement is said to run until 2030, with major targets including lifting the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations title and securing qualification for the 2030 FIFA World Cup.
Speaking on the coach’s influence, Simon said Chelle has won over the players through his leadership, commitment and willingness to stand by the team.
“Of course, Eric Chelle is a good person. He’s a good man. He deserves it for many years. We haven’t had a coach that hasn’t lost a game like this. We lost just one game against Portugal. He has done very well. He brings all the teams together,” Simon told Urban Dwell Sport.
“He’s like a father to everybody and you can see in his interviews he loves war when playing. So, he loves his players to go all in. He’s ready to fight for his players. That’s why the boys are ready to do everything for the nation, for the coach and for themselves. So I’m happy he is staying.”
Since taking charge, Chelle has overseen a promising spell with the Super Eagles, guiding the team through an unbeaten run in competitive matches while helping restore belief after a challenging period for the national side.
His tenure has also been characterised by improved team cohesion, a clearer playing identity and growing confidence among the squad, with several experienced players publicly endorsing his methods as Nigeria continue preparations for the 2027 AFCON qualifying campaign.
