When Eric Chelle was unveiled as the Super Eagles head coach earlier this month, the appointment turned heads across the footballing world. A former Mali national team coach and ex-Lens player, Chelle made history as the first-ever non-Nigerian African to manage Nigeria’s senior national team. While some fans clamored for a European tactician, the tides are shifting, with growing support for the Malian gaffer from notable football figures.

Among these voices is former Super Eagles goalkeeper Ike Shorunmu, who firmly believes Chelle has what it takes to guide Nigeria to new heights. In an interview with The Guardian.ng, Shorunmu expressed optimism about the team’s chances under Chelle’s leadership, particularly in their hunt for a 2026 FIFA World Cup ticket and a fourth AFCON title.

“Chelle is a good coach,” Shorunmu remarked. “But no coach can succeed without the players’ full commitment. They need to be at their best to achieve these goals. World Cup qualification and AFCON 2025 are achievable, but it’s a collective effort.”

The stakes are undeniably high for Chelle. He inherits a team brimming with talent and expectation. The Super Eagles came agonizingly close to AFCON glory last year, falling to hosts Côte d’Ivoire in the final. Now, they’re placed in Group C for the upcoming 2025 AFCON in Morocco, alongside Tunisia, Tanzania, and Uganda.

While Shorunmu remains optimistic about the group stage, he warned against complacency. “The players have the experience, but they must approach every match with focus and determination. Côte d’Ivoire was a hard lesson, but it’s time to channel that disappointment into a winning mentality,” he added.

With Nigerian legends like Austin Okocha and active stars such as Umar Sadiq throwing their weight behind Chelle, the pressure and support are undeniable. For a footballing nation that last lifted the AFCON trophy in 2013, Chelle carries the hopes of millions on his shoulders.

The road to success may be daunting, but if the Super Eagles unite under their new coach, a triumphant chapter in Nigerian football history could be written.