While Chelle has his credentials, some Nigerians are underwhelmed by the appointment.
Here are 5 alternative coaches who could have brought more excitement and success to the team:
1. Hervé Renard
Herve Renard is a highly decorated coach with a proven track record of success. He led Zambia to their first Africa Cup of Nations title in 2012 and repeated the feat with Côte d’Ivoire in 2015.
Renard’s expertise in player management could have created and maintained unity within the Super Eagles camp.
2. José Pékerman
Pékerman is a seasoned coach with extensive international experience. He led Argentina to the 2006 World Cup quarterfinals and achieved success with Colombia, guiding them to multiple World Cup appearances.
His strategic acumen and penchant for working with young players could have provided the leadership needed to elevate Nigeria’s talented squad.
3. Avram Grant
Avram Grant is a highly respected coach with experience managing top clubs like Chelsea. He guided Ghana to the semi-finals of the Africa Cup of Nations and took them to a historic position on the FIFA Rankings.
Grant’s understanding of global football dynamics makes him a formidable candidate to guide Nigeria’s Super Eagles to the 2026 World Cup.
4. Claude Le Roy
Claude Le Roy is a veteran coach with a wealth of experience managing African national teams.
He led Cameroon to the 1986 Africa Cup of Nations final and won the trophy with the Indomitable Lions in 1988.
Le Roy’s mentorship qualities could have proved instrumental in guiding Nigeria through crucial qualifiers. His straightforward approach will certainly have brought the best out of a talented group of players.
5. Pitso Mosimane
Pitso Mosimane is one of Africa’s top coaches, with a proven track record of success and a deep understanding of the continent.
He guided Mamelodi Sundowns to multiple domestic league titles and a historic CAF Champions League victory. Mosimane then won back-to-back CAF Champions League trophies with Al Ahly.
