Wilfred Ndidi leads player backing for Eric Chelle as NFF weighs big decision

Captain Wilfred Ndidi has emerged as the strongest voice calling for stability rather than change at the top.

Nigeria's title hopes were dashed on penalties by hosts Morocco, a result that immediately placed Chelle's future under scrutiny.

The Malian coach had been tasked with reaching the final, and rumours linking him with vacancies in Tunisia and Angola have only intensified debate around his position.

However, Ndidi believes the federation should look beyond the disappointment of missing out on the final and focus on the bigger picture.

The experienced midfielder has urged the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) to keep faith with Chelle, insisting continuity is vital if the Super Eagles are to build sustainably.

Speaking in Casablanca ahead of Saturday's third-place playoff against Egypt, Ndidi made his position clear.

"All I want is that we keep the coach. We should be focused on continuity at this point," the Leicester City star said, as quoted by Pulse Sports Nigeria.

Ndidi's support is shaped by experience. Having worked under multiple coaches, including Gernot Rohr, Jose Peseiro and Finidi George, the captain feels Chelle has finally given the team a clear tactical identity.

Nigeria have played with renewed intensity at AFCON 2025, deploying a high-pressing system built around a diamond midfield.

The numbers back that assessment. Under Chelle, the Super Eagles have scored a tournament-high 14 goals, while their structure and work rate have drawn praise despite internal challenges, including a bonus dispute and a brief on-pitch disagreement between Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman.

Ndidi's intervention could prove influential with the Ibrahim Gusau-led NFF, who have historically valued player backing when deciding a coach's fate.

Chelle has also stated his desire to stay, promising to refresh the squad if given time. A positive result against Egypt could further strengthen his long-term case.