Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle defends request for improved contract terms

Super Eagles head coach Éric Chelle has defended his request for an improved contract package from the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), amid public debate over the proposed figures.

The 48-year-old tactician is currently earning a reported monthly salary of $50,000. Recent reports suggested he requested an increase to $130,000, a move that has generated controversy.

Speaking on the Histoires de Foot Podcast, Chelle clarified that the $130,000 figure refers to dollars not euros and stressed that the amount would cover more than just his personal earnings.

He explained that, under his arrangement, he is responsible for paying his technical crew, which includes his assistant coach, physical trainer, goalkeeper trainer, and personal aide.

“In Africa, as a national team coach, I have to pay my staff from the agreed amount,” Chelle said. “We are five people. All of them have to be paid from that package.”

He added that his personal assistant plays a key role in helping him manage the intense pressure that comes with coaching a country of over 200 million people.

“There is pressure. Sometimes you cannot manage it alone. So I created a structure around me to help manage that pressure,” he said.

Chelle maintained that the discussions with the NFF are part of normal contract negotiations.

“When you negotiate, do you go as high as possible or as low as possible?” he asked. “It’s a negotiation. We’re getting there.”

He also addressed reports that he requested flight tickets for his family, explaining that such benefits are common in coaching contracts. According to him, relocating to Nigeria requires ensuring his family can visit, which comes at a cost.

“These are not excessive demands,” Chelle stated. “They are conditions to allow me to do my job properly.”

The former Mali international revealed that a formal letter outlining the negotiation terms had been sent to the federation. He added that his representative has remained in Nigeria to continue discussions.

Chelle, who was appointed after the Africa Cup of Nations campaign, insisted he remains committed to his role but admitted uncertainty over the ongoing public scrutiny.

“I am the Nigerian coach,” he said. “I don’t know if there is a campaign against me or if someone does not want me anymore. I don’t know.”

Negotiations between Chelle and the NFF are expected to continue in the coming weeks.