I don't know him — 19-year-old Super Eagles hopeful gives verdict on new Nigeria coach Eric Chelle

Nigerian midfielder Chibueze Izuogu, who is currently on loan at Spartanii in Moldova, has shared his thoughts on the newly appointed Super Eagles coach, Eric Chelle, despite having limited knowledge of him.

Chelle, a Franco-Malian, was unveiled earlier this week in Abuja as the permanent replacement for former coach Finidi George.

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He signed a two-year contract with the option for an additional year contingent upon qualifying the team for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

In an exclusive interview with Pulse Sports Nigeria, Izuogu admitted, “I don't really know him, I can't lie.”

“All I know is that he coached Mali’s national team. But checking his stats, he's done well for the national team (of Mali). Hopefully, he is going to do well for us too. I have not really watched him.”

His comments indicate a cautious optimism as the Super Eagles look to revitalise their campaign under new leadership.

Chelle's appointment has sparked discussions about his credentials, given his previous experience primarily with lower-division French clubs and his tenure with Mali's national team.

He faces the immediate challenge of preparing the Super Eagles for crucial World Cup qualifiers against Rwanda and Zimbabwe when international football resumes for the new year in March 2025.

In addition to sharing his views on Chelle, Izuogu reiterated his ambition to play for the Super Eagles, stating that it has always been his dream to represent the country at the highest level.

“Yes, it has always been my dream to play for the Super Eagles. So, I will have to stay focused and keep working hard,” he said.

This determination shows Izuogu's commitment to his development as a player and his aspirations within Nigerian football.

The young midfielder is already a Nigerian international at the youth level after representing the country at the African Games in Ghana last year with the Under-20s, Flying Eagles.

Izuogu, who scored two stunning goals and assisted another in just three outings, is grateful and proud for the chance to defend the nation.

“I am very grateful to have represented this great nation. It's not easy for anybody to do (rep Nigeria) and I would say I learnt a lot from my time there (in Ghana) and it really helped me a lot knowing that I played for his great nation,” he added.

“I was really proud but unfortunately, we didn't do well in the competition but as an individual, I was proud of myself. And thanks to all the coaches in the national team who believed in me and gave me the opportunity to go out there and show myself to the world. I am grateful.”

Izuogu, whose loan is till the end of the current season, was in the country for a short Christmas holiday.