Lawal doubts NFF can maintain Chelle’s new salary
Garba Lawal has expressed concerns about the Nigeria Football Federation’s ability to keep up with the $100,000 monthly salary for Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle. Chelle’s contract was recently extended, and he now has added responsibilities, including overseeing the U-23 team. Former coach Finidi George also questioned the wisdom of giving Chelle dual roles. Both ex-players warned that these decisions could have negative consequences for Nigerian football.
Match highlights
- Eric Chelle joined the Super Eagles in January 2025 on a two-year deal, which has now been extended until 2030.
- His salary increased from $50,000 to $100,000 per month, with the Nigeria Football Federation now handling his backroom staff contracts separately.
- Chelle led Nigeria to a bronze medal at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco and reached the play-offs in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.
- Finidi George criticized the decision to assign both the senior and U-23 teams to Chelle, warning it could be counterproductive.
- Chelle will oversee preparations for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers, set to begin in September.
