Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has shed more light on his hands on approach to managing Nigeria’s national team, revealing that he regularly informs players before attending their matches as part of his scouting routine.
The Franco-Malian tactician made the revelation during an interview with Algerian influencer Just Riadh, explaining that his presence at club games is not just about evaluating performances but also about showing support to players representing Nigeria across Europe.
According to Chelle, one of the players who knew he would be in the stands was reigning African Footballer of the Year Ademola Lookman.
“Generally, I tell them. I tell them I am coming to watch the match,” Chelle said.
The Super Eagles boss disclosed that Lookman was aware he would be watching Atalanta’s UEFA Champions League clash against Marseille in November 2025, although another member of the Nigerian coaching staff also met the forward before the game.
“Lookman came for the Champions League match against Marseille with Atalanta, aware that I was coming to watch the match, though Eddie went to see him at the hotel,” Chelle added.
Chelle was in attendance as Atalanta secured a 1-0 away victory over Marseille, with Lookman featuring for 75 minutes before making way for Yunus Musah.
The 48-year-old coach also highlighted another example of his commitment by revealing that he travelled to Marseille shortly after midfielder Tochukwu Nnadi completed his move from Belgian side Zulte Waregem.
Although the youngster was not included in the matchday squad because the transfer was completed too close to kickoff, Chelle said he still felt it was important to be present as the midfielder began a new chapter in his career.
“I wanted to be there because I don’t live far away. He came from Belgium and was arriving at a club like that, so for his first match, I wanted to be there,” Chelle explained.
Beyond monitoring performances, Chelle’s comments underline his desire to build stronger relationships with players by maintaining regular contact away from international camps.
Since taking charge of the Super Eagles, the former Mali coach has intensified his scouting efforts, attending club matches across Europe while also keeping a close eye on emerging talents in the Nigeria Premier Football League.
His proactive approach has been widely viewed as part of a broader plan to strengthen competition for places and ensure every eligible player understands they remain on the national team’s radar ahead of future international assignments.
