Former Gombe FA chairman Ahmed Shuaibu Gara-Gombe has warned the Nigeria Football Federation against renewing the contract of Eric Chelle, saying such a move could backfire. He argued that extending the deal, especially with a major salary increase, may not benefit the Super Eagles.
Chelle reportedly earns about $50,000 monthly and is said to have requested a new deal worth $130,000 per month alongside several conditions. Gara-Gombe criticized the demands, claiming they appear excessive and may be an attempt to take advantage of his growing profile since coaching Nigeria.
He insisted that Nigeria’s squad quality should make coaching the team a privilege rather than a bargaining chip. According to him, the coach has not yet delivered enough results to justify such financial commitments or long-term assurances.
Gara-Gombe also dismissed rumours linking Chelle with Olympique Marseille, describing them as unconvincing. He maintained that if the coach chooses to leave, the federation should allow him depart instead of agreeing to terms that could later be regretted.
