Super Eagles captain William Troost-Ekong has addressed the storm of criticism surrounding the appointment of Eric Chelle as the new head coach of the Nigerian national team. Speaking during an Instagram live broadcast, the defender urged fans to rally behind the team and their new leader as they gear up for the 2025 World Cup qualifiers.
The decision by the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) to appoint Chelle, who was previously dismissed as Mali’s coach following a poor run of results, has sparked widespread skepticism and disappointment among fans and pundits. Many have questioned Chelle’s ability to steer the Super Eagles toward success, given his recent track record.
However, Troost-Ekong sought to calm the growing unrest, emphasizing unity and positivity. “The team is FULLY focused on success,” he declared, appealing for unwavering fan support to help the squad achieve its objectives. His comments are widely viewed as a vote of confidence in Chelle’s leadership, signaling that the players are prepared to work with their new coach despite the controversies.
While Troost-Ekong’s call for solidarity aims to reset the narrative, the backlash surrounding Chelle’s appointment continues to dominate discussions in Nigerian football circles. Critics remain vocal, with many questioning the NFF’s decision-making process and its judgment in appointing a coach with a history of underwhelming results.
Social media has been ablaze with discontent from fans, who worry about the Super Eagles’ prospects under Chelle’s guidance. The skepticism stems from fears that his tenure in Mali could foreshadow challenges for Nigeria.
Yet, Troost-Ekong’s message highlights the importance of focusing on the task ahead. With the World Cup qualifiers around the corner, the Super Eagles face a crucial journey. The captain’s call for support serves as a reminder that success on the pitch depends not only on the players and coaching staff but also on the unity and encouragement of their supporters.
Whether this will be enough to quell the controversy remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: the Super Eagles will need every ounce of determination—and backing from their fans—to navigate the challenges that lie ahead.
