Former Super Eagles defender Mobi Okparaku has welcomed the decision to hand Eric Chelle a new contract, insisting the Franco-Malian coach now has the time needed to build a stable and competitive national team.
Okparaku believes continuity is exactly what the Super Eagles require after the disappointment of missing back-to-back FIFA World Cups.
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“Eric Chelle now has the opportunity to build something special for Nigeria,” Okparaku said.
The former international explained that extending the coach’s contract will allow him to fully implement his football philosophy while assembling a squad capable of challenging for major honours.
According to Okparaku, rebuilding a successful national team takes patience, and changing coaches too frequently only disrupts progress.
“This gives him the chance to fine-tune his ideas, solve the team’s problems and build a squad that can compete for trophies,” he added.
Okparaku stressed that stability on the bench is one of the key ingredients for sustained success in international football.
He believes Chelle now has the platform to identify new talents, strengthen the squad and establish a clear playing identity for the Super Eagles.
“Continuity is what this team needs if Nigeria wants a brighter future,” he stated.
The former defender expressed confidence that, with adequate support from the Nigeria Football Federation, Chelle can build a Super Eagles side capable of challenging for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations and securing qualification for the 2030 FIFA World Cup.
