Super Eagles Star Osimhen Snubs Chelle

Super Eagles Star Osimhen Snubs “Chelle,” Names Two Best Coaches in His Career Super Eagles and Galatasaray striker Victor Osimhen has spotlighted the two coaches he regards as the most influential in his professional career notably excluding Nigeria head coach Eric Chelle from his personal list of top mentors. The forward’s comments have sparked lively debate among fans and pundits across Nigerian and international football circles.
In a recent interview, Osimhen reflected on the managers who have shaped his journey in elite football, identifying two names above all others Okan Buruk Osimhen praised the Turkish coach for his humility, motivational skills and meticulous tactical preparation during their time together at Galatasaray, where the striker has enjoyed prolific form in European and domestic competitions.
Luciano Spalletti The Italian was singled out for his role during Osimhen’s tenure at Napoli, where the striker flourished and played a key part in the club’s domestic successes. Osimhen credited Spalletti for building close relationships with players and helping him maximise his potential Osimhen’s choice underscores his appreciation for tactical leadership and personal coach-player rapport factors he says helped elevate his game at club level.
Although Osimhen did not list Eric Chelle, the current Super Eagles head coach, among his two most influential coaches, he nevertheless offered “strong backing” for the Malian tactician’s ongoing project with the Nigerian national team.
Osimhen praised Chelle’s balanced leadership style demanding in training but approachable off the pitch and highlighted the positive team unity and motivation he believes the coach has fostered. He also urged the Nigeria Football Federation to give Chelle a long term contract, saying steady leadership could help the Super Eagles achieve even bigger successes.
While not naming him among his personal favourites, Osimhen described Chelle as an important figure in Nigeria’s football progression and lauded the team’s bronze medal performance at AFCON 2025 as evidence of progress under his guidance.
Osimhen, 27, has been one of Africa’s most prolific forwards in recent years, boasting a strong goalscoring record for club and country. His rise from Napoli star to Galatasaray talisman has seen him become one of the most feared strikers in European football.
At international level, the attacker has been central to the Super Eagles’ recent results, including a standout showing at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations. While Chelle’s appointment as head coach was met with both support and skepticism, Osimhen’s remarks indicate his desire for continuity and faith in the current coaching project Osimhen’s comments have stirred reactions:
Supporters highlight his respectful acknowledgement of Chelle while celebrating the influence of Buruk and Spalletti.
Tactical analysts note that Osimhen’s coach choices align with the stages of his professional development club environments where he achieved his greatest success Nigeria football fans continue to debate whether national team coaches should break into his “top pivotal mentors” list, given their role in shaping the Super Eagles’ identity.