Former Nigerian international, Mobi Oparaku, has expressed his excitement about the appointment of Eric Chelle as the new head coach of the Super Eagles.

Chelle was unveiled by the Nigeria Football Federation, NFF on Monday in Abuja, taking charge of a team facing a challenging path in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.

His immediate focus will be on preparing the Super Eagles for two crucial games in March 2025, an away fixture against Rwanda and a home clash with Zimbabwe.

Speaking with Brila.net, Oparaku commended the decision to hire a younger, vibrant coach, urging Nigerians to focus on Chelle’s potential rather than his past record.

“I’m so happy we went for a young and vibrant coach,” Oparaku said. “We shouldn’t dwell too much on his past records or where he has coached.

He’s a good technical and tactical coach, and young like the players. I hope he can ignore the criticism and focus on working for us.”

Oparaku also emphasized the importance of understanding the emotions and pride Nigerians attach to the Super Eagles, expressing confidence that Chelle can inspire the team.

Chelle’s coaching journey includes managing lower-division clubs in France, such as GS Consolat, FC Martigues, and Boulogne, before being appointed as Mali’s national team coach.

After his stint with Mali, he joined Algerian side MC Oran but left by mutual consent to take up the Super Eagles job.