Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has revealed that his responsibilities now extend beyond the senior national team, with the Franco-Malian tactician pledging to closely monitor players across Nigeria’s youth ranks as part of a long-term plan to strengthen the national teams.
Chelle made the remarks during his visit to the Flying Eagles camp at the ongoing WAFU B U-20 Championship in Côte d’Ivoire, where he watched Nigeria’s youngsters and encouraged them to remain focused on their development.
Speaking after observing the Flying Eagles, Chelle expressed satisfaction with the quality of players coming through Nigeria’s youth system and stressed the importance of maintaining continuity between the various national teams.
«”I’m impressed with what I’ve seen from the team. There are many talented players here, and it’s important that we continue monitoring their progress,” Chelle said.»
The Super Eagles coach explained that his vision is to establish a seamless pathway from the junior teams to the senior national side.
«”My role is not only with the Super Eagles. I have to keep an eye on players from the U-17s, the U-20s and beyond so we can identify the best talents for the U-23 team and eventually the senior national team,” he added.»
Chelle believes consistent scouting and closer collaboration between Nigeria’s age-grade teams will help ensure a steady supply of quality players capable of succeeding at the highest level.
The former Mali coach has repeatedly emphasised the importance of youth development since taking charge of the Super Eagles, describing age-grade competitions as vital platforms for identifying the country’s next generation of international stars.
With Nigeria’s youth teams continuing to compete on the regional and continental stage, Chelle’s expanded scouting approach is expected to play a key role in building stronger U-23 and Super Eagles squads capable of competing consistently for major honours in the years ahead.
