Former Super Eagles goalkeeper Abiodun Baruwa has expressed confidence in Eric Chelle’s ability to lead Nigeria back to the FIFA World Cup, insisting that the national team must remain patient and trust the current coach’s long-term vision.
Chelle took charge of the Super Eagles during a difficult period, inheriting a team struggling to secure qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. While Nigeria ultimately fell short of reaching the tournament, Baruwa believes the foundations are being laid for future success.
Speaking to Proudly Austin, the former Nigeria international praised Chelle’s impact on the squad and urged stakeholders to give the coach enough time to build a competitive team.
“I think he is a good coach for Nigeria. If we stick with him, trust him, he will qualify us for the next World Cup. I believe in that.”
Since taking over, Chelle has overseen the integration of several young players into the Super Eagles setup, including Wrexham goalkeeper Arthur Okonkwo.
The former Arsenal academy graduate earned his senior Nigeria debut during the Unity Cup in May, producing a clean-sheet performance in a 3-0 victory over Zimbabwe. His emergence has generated excitement among supporters, but Baruwa believes it is still too early to make a definitive judgement on the shot-stopper.
“I saw him briefly. Ball handling is okay but I need to see more of him because I never watch him with Wrexham,” he added.
“I saw him for a couple of minutes, he is decent, he is doing what he is supposed to be doing. But, it takes time to build to this level.”
Baruwa’s comments highlight the need for patience as Nigeria continues its transition under Chelle, with younger players being gradually introduced into the national team.
Although the Super Eagles missed out on automatic qualification for the 2026 World Cup, the focus has now shifted towards rebuilding a squad capable of competing for major honours and securing a place at the 2030 tournament.
With experienced voices like Baruwa backing Chelle’s project, the Franco-Malian coach appears to have growing support as he continues shaping the future of Nigerian football.
