The departure of Éric Chelle from Algeria for Nigeria causes a real tidal wave at MC Oran. Who didn't expect to see his coach leave so quickly, and summoned him this Wednesday.
Dramatic twist at Mouloudia in Oran. Arrived on the bench of the Algerian club in October, Eric Chelle has officially been named coach of the Nigeria Super Eagles Tuesday. A shock announcement that took supporters and leaders of the MCO by surprise.
At 45, the former coach of Mali seemed fully committed to the Mouloudia project. Since his arrival at the start of the season, he has managed 12 matches, obtaining a mixed record with 5 victories and 5 defeats, and some up and down performances. However, despite this contrasting career, Chelle was seen as a centerpiece of the club's sporting renewal, which is banking on a medium-term project to return to the summits of the Algerian Football.
A weakened project for Mouloudia
The information, relayed by the Nigerian media and confirmed in an official press release, caused a shock wave within the Algerian club. “ The news spread like wildfire in the evening, leaving Mouloudia fans stunned », Reports the local press.
For the MCO, this announcement is a real slap in the face. The club, already in search of sporting stability, sees its project weakened by this unexpected announcement. Chelle was present for training this Wednesday morning and the MCO immediately announced the convening of an emergency meeting in his presence.
-“This meeting aims to determine whether he stays or leaves the team, especially since he is still under contract.“, indicated the Oran club, emphasizing the need to “guarantee the rights of both parties“.
A clause and a phone call that change everything
Is a combination of the two positions possible until the end of the season? Hard to believe, especially since everything would already be settled behind the scenes. According to sources close to the matter, Éric Chelle would indeed have a contractual clause allowing him to leave the MCO in the event of an offer of a national selection. This is precisely what would have happened when the Nigerian Football Federation activated this opportunity to attract the Franco-Malian coach.
Now at the head of one of the most prestigious selections on the African continent, Chelle will have to guide Nigeria towards the qualification for the 2026 World Cup. A colossal challenge in a country where football is a true religion and where the demands of supporters and managers are at their peak.
