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Super Eagles’ new coach Eric Chelle has been told that there is no upside to managing Nigeria.

Nigerian journalist Tunde Young has issued a cautionary message to the newly appointed head coach of the Super Eagles, Eric Sekou Chelle, following his unveiling at the MKO Abiola National Stadium in Abuja.

Young has shared the challenges that come with coaching Nigeria’s national football team, expressing concerns about the expectations and pressures that Chelle will face.

During the unveiling ceremony, which was led by Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) President Alhaji Ibrahim Musa Gusau, there was a call for unity among Nigerians to support Chelle as he embarks on his mission to revitalise the Super Eagles.

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Chelle, 47, has signed a two-year contract, with an option for an additional year contingent upon his success in leading the team to the FIFA World Cup in 2026.

In a recent episode of Pulse Sports Nigeria’s Crossfire, Young articulated his apprehensions about Chelle’s new role. He questioned whether Chelle fully understands the magnitude of the task ahead, stating,

“I hope he knows what he signed up for? Right now Nigerians now know who you are.”

Young further elaborated that coaching Nigeria is fraught with difficulties, likening it to high-pressure roles in clubs like Manchester United. He pointed out that financial compensation could be an issue, suggesting that coaches may often find themselves owed money despite their contracts.

Young also highlighted the immediate scrutiny Chelle would face from fans, stating that there is no honeymoon period for coaches of the Super Eagles. He referenced past experiences where coaches like Finidi George faced criticism even after winning matches.

“Finidi George was getting cusses from the first game that we won,” Young noted, stating that success with the Super Eagles is often measured by immediate results rather than long-term development.

As Eric Chelle prepares to take on this formidable challenge, he is expected to leverage his experience from coaching Mali, where he led the team to the quarterfinals of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations.

However, scepticism remains among fans and analysts regarding his ability to manage the complexities of Nigerian football culture and expectations

What the full Crossfire chat below