Eric Chelle has submitted a comprehensive 19-point contract proposal to the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF). He is demanding a monthly salary of $130,000 covering his entire technical staff. In addition, he asks for benefits including a private SUV with chauffeur and a house with 24-hour uninterrupted electricity.
The Franco-Malian tactician formally presented the terms on January 22, 2026, through his former representatives. However, discussions have yet to commence following his recent switch to Marseille-based agency Wilders Sport. Notably, the proposal represents an increase from his current $50,000 monthly package.
An NFF board member confirmed the federation is reviewing the demands. The demands will first pass through the technical committee before reaching the executive board for approval. Chelle still has one year remaining on his initial two-year contract signed in January 2025.
The $130,000 figure encompasses salaries for Chelle, his technical assistants, and his personal assistant. Tunisia has reportedly offered the 48-year-old approximately $100,000 monthly, placing additional pressure on NFF negotiators.
Chelle’s demands extend beyond financial remuneration to operational control. Specifically, he seeks autonomy in team selection without interference and the right to choose international friendly opponents. Furthermore, he wants structured access to scout both domestic league players and overseas-based talents.
The coach requests a furnished office equipped with a projector for tactical analysis and GPS provision. He also wants internet access at federation expense. His accommodation requirements specify a secure environment with an uninterrupted power supply to support training analysis and player monitoring.
Family provisions include business class flights for himself and his wife, with economy tickets for his two children. He also demands that the NFF issue formal working contracts for his staff members. He insists that salaries be paid on or before the 30th of each month.
Conditions and deliberations
The NFF has reportedly rejected the proposal initially, citing financial constraints and ongoing discussions about coaching remuneration in Nigerian football. Sources indicate federation officials consider the demands excessive, given budgetary pressures.
Chelle led Nigeria to a third-place finish at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco. The Super Eagles scored 14 goals, their highest tally in a single AFCON campaign. In addition, the team went unbeaten in seven matches, losing only to hosts Morocco on penalties in the semi-final.
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The coach faces upcoming World Cup qualifying obligations, with Nigeria scheduled to face Jordan in a March friendly. Meanwhile, the federation awaits a FIFA verdict on Nigeria’s protest against DR Congo regarding alleged ineligible players in a World Cup playoff.
