Super Eagles Manager, Eric Chelle has formally requested a significant salary increase from the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) as part of a broader 19-point proposal submitted to the federation, casting uncertainty over his future as head coach of the Super Eagles.
According to reports monitored closely by Okay News, Chelle is seeking a monthly salary of $130,000—nearly three times his current $50,000 pay—as a condition to continue in his role. The proposed figure, which would cover his technical staff and personal assistant, represents a major financial commitment and comes despite his failure to meet key performance targets set when he was appointed in January 2025.
Chelle signed a two-year contract with an optional one-year extension in the federation’s favour. He was mandated to qualify Nigeria for the 2026 FIFA World Cup and reach the final of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations. However, he fell short of both objectives.
Beyond the salary increase, the coach’s demands include the provision of a private SUV with chauffeur and security, a house in a well-secured area with uninterrupted electricity, a furnished office equipped with a projector for match analysis, internet access, and flight tickets for his wife and two children. He is also requesting autonomy in selecting friendly matches based on opponents, full control over team selection without interference, and formal working contracts for his staff.
Other requests cover regular and timely salary payments, inclusion of his personal assistant in the federation’s bonus structure, logistical support to monitor players abroad and in the domestic league, structured camping programmes, youth development initiatives, and monthly meetings with all national team coaches.
Chelle’s salary demand has raised eyebrows, especially when compared to his predecessor, José Peseiro, who reportedly earned less despite leading Nigeria to the final of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations. During his time with Mali’s national team, Chelle was believed to have earned around $20,000 per month.
Since the conclusion of the 2025 AFCON, Chelle has been linked with coaching opportunities in Tunisia, Angola and Gabon. He was also reportedly offered himself to French club Marseille following Roberto De Zerbi’s departure by mutual consent.
The NFF now faces a delicate decision: whether to renegotiate and retain the coach under revised terms or part ways and begin the search for a new manager ahead of crucial international competitions.
