Éric Sékou Chelle, a retired Malian footballer turned coach, now takes the helm as the head coach of Nigeria’s national football team, the Super Eagles.
Known for his robust defensive style during his playing days and his tactical acumen as a manager, Chelle’s journey from a humble beginning in Abidjan, Ivory Coast, to leading one of Africa’s most prominent football teams is nothing short of remarkable.
Profile details
Name: Éric Sékou Chelle
Date of birth: November 11, 1977
Place of birth: Abidjan, Ivory Coast
Career: Footballer
Background
Eric Chelle was born on November 11, 1977, in Abidjan, Ivory Coast to a French father and a Malian mother.
Despite his Ivorian birthplace, Chelle holds French nationality and is of Malian descent.
His passion for football was deeply influenced by his family, particularly his maternal grandfather, who encouraged his love for the sport.
Chelle comes from a family of athletes, his father was a footballer, his brother enjoyed a 25-year career in basketball, and his son and nephew currently play basketball for Mali.
Chelle’s decision to represent Mali on the international stage was a heartfelt nod to his maternal lineage and the values instilled in him by his grandfather.
Playing career
Chelle enjoyed a distinguished career as a centre-back, playing exclusively in France’s domestic leagues.
He began his professional journey with Martigues, where he made 74 appearances. His performance caught the attention of Valenciennes, where he spent five years (2003–2008).
It was here that Chelle truly excelled, featuring in 142 matches, scoring 10 goals, and helping the club win the Ligue 2 title and the French National 1 Cup.
Chelle later joined RC Lens in 2008, where he played 82 matches and was part of a team that clinched the Ligue 1 title.
He also had stints with Istres (60 matches) and Chamois Niortais (17 matches) before retiring in 2014 at the age of 37.
On the international stage, Chelle chose to represent Mali, his mother’s country, over France or Ivory Coast. However, his international career was brief, earning only five caps between 2004 and 2006.
Transition to coaching
Shortly after hanging up his boots, Chelle moved into coaching. He began as an assistant coach at French amateur club GS Consolat in 2014, eventually becoming the head coach in 2016.
Over the years, Chelle’s managerial career has included stints with clubs in France, a national team, and an African club.
Highlights of his managerial career
GS Consolat and FC Martigues: Chelle proved his leadership abilities at these clubs, achieving a solid win rate and helping to develop young talents.
Mali National Team (2022–2024): During his tenure, Mali reached the semifinals of the 2024 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). This achievement solidified Chelle’s reputation as a tactically astute manager capable of competing at the highest level.
Appointment as Super Eagles’ head coach
Chelle’s appointment as the head coach of the Super Eagles comes with high expectations. Nigerian football fans, known for their passion, have expressed mixed reactions to his hiring.
Despite the criticism, Chelle’s defensive expertise as a former centre-back and his managerial achievements, particularly with Mali, could make him a valuable asset.
His primary task will be to guide the Super Eagles to success in the upcoming 2026 World Cup qualifiers and beyond.
Private life
Eric Chelle remains dedicated to football, with a focus on helping teams achieve their full potential. He is happily married and has a family.
Net worth
Chelle has not disclosed his net worth publicly, but it is believed to stem primarily from his football career and managerial roles.
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