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Sunday Oliseh questioned Nigeria’s decision to appoint Eric Chelle as head coach. Super Eagles defender Bruno Onyemaechi responded with strong support, calling Chelle the “right guy for the job.”
  • Oliseh criticised Chelle’s appointment, calling it “a sign of disrespect” to Nigerian coaches
  • Onyemaechi defended Chelle, urging critics to “come closer” before judging
  • Chelle is unbeaten in five matches, recently winning the Unity Cup
  • Nigeria faces crucial World Cup qualifiers in September
  • Onyemaechi is set for a Champions League debut with Olympiacos
This clash reveals a deeper debate about identity, pride, and merit in Nigerian football. Sunday Oliseh, a national icon, sees Chelle’s appointment as a slight to local coaches, a reflection of larger frustrations within African coaching circles. Yet, Bruno Onyemaechi’s public backing reflects the team’s trust in Chelle’s methods and mindset. Chelle, a Malian, may be foreign, but not unfamiliar with African football’s stakes. His unbeaten start buys him goodwill. But with World Cup qualifiers looming, results, not nationality, will ultimately determine whether Chelle earns lasting respect.

Can Chelle silence the doubters and lead Nigeria to the World Cup? Or will national pride outweigh performance in the coaching debate?