Former Olympic Eagles and Super Eagles midfielder Femi Ajilore has questioned the decision to hand Eric Chelle the responsibility of managing both Nigeria’s senior national team and the U-23 side.
Ajilore believes the expanded role could place too much pressure on the Franco-Malian tactician at a crucial stage of the Super Eagles’ rebuilding process.
“I don’t support the decision,” Ajilore said.
The former international argued that managing the Super Eagles alone is already one of the most demanding jobs in African football, warning that adding another national team could prove counterproductive.
According to him, the workload may become excessive and ultimately affect Chelle’s ability to deliver results with the senior team.
“The workload will become too much for him,” he added.
Ajilore stressed that the Super Eagles require the coach’s full attention as Nigeria looks to recover from the disappointment of missing two consecutive FIFA World Cups.
He warned that splitting responsibilities between two national teams could create unnecessary distractions.
“Managing the Super Eagles is already a herculean task, and taking on the U-23 team could distract him from that responsibility,” he stated.
The former midfielder maintained that while continuity in player development is important, the senior national team should remain Chelle’s primary focus as Nigeria prepares for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations and the road to the 2030 FIFA World Cup.
