Former Nigerian international Victor Ikpeba has applauded the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) for retaining Eric Chelle as head coach of the Super Eagles, insisting that continuity and stability are crucial for the team’s progress.
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Reacting to recent debates surrounding Chelle’s future, Ikpeba said the decision to keep the Franco-Malian tactician shows foresight by the football authorities, especially at a time when the national team is trying to build consistency.
“Stability is very important in football,” Ikpeba said. “You can’t keep changing coaches and expect miracles. Keeping Eric Chelle gives the team continuity.”
The former African Footballer of the Year noted that Chelle has already laid a foundation and deserves time to implement his ideas fully, rather than being judged prematurely.
“With Chelle, there is continuity,” he added. “The players are beginning to understand what he wants, and that relationship between coach and team is very important.”
Ikpeba stressed that frequent managerial changes have hurt Nigerian football in the past, often forcing players to constantly adjust to new philosophies and systems.
“If you want progress, you must be patient,” he said. “Football doesn’t grow overnight. You give a coach time, support him, and allow the process to work.”
He expressed optimism that, if given adequate backing by the Nigeria Football Federation, Chelle can take the Super Eagles to a higher level in upcoming competitions.
“I am optimistic about what he can do,” Ikpeba concluded. “The NFF has done the right thing by standing by him, and now everyone must support the team to move forward.”
The Super Eagles are expected to continue preparations for future international engagements under Chelle, with the emphasis now firmly on long-term development rather than short-term reactions.
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