Super Eagles defender Bruno Onyemaechi has thrown his weight behind Nigeria’s head coach Eric Chelle, calling for unity and focus as the national team prepares for crucial World Cup qualifying fixtures.
Amid mounting scrutiny over Chelle’s appointment, the 26-year-old Olympiacos left-back has urged fans and critics alike to judge the coach on his performance, not his nationality.
“There’s noise outside saying he doesn’t know what he’s doing, but if you come closer, you’ll know he’s the right guy for the job, In the few months I’ve worked with him, I can say he’s the right guy for the job” Onyemaechi told TVC News Nigeria.
Chelle has guided Nigeria to an unbeaten run in five games since taking charge in January, including winning the Unity Cup — a four-nation tournament featuring Ghana, Jamaica, and Trinidad and Tobago.
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Nigeria faces a defining stretch in their bid to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, and Onyemaechi believes the team must block out distractions and focus on the task ahead.
Talking about the World Cup, we have very important games that we need to win. We know it’s difficult, but we are professionals. Nigeria is a big nation — it’s a big shame if we don’t qualify,” he added.
Bruno Onyemaechi in action for the Super Eagles against Russia. Photo Credit: X
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Onyemaechi also has big ambitions at the club level. Following a successful half-season with Olympiacos, in which he helped the club secure the Greek Super League and Greek Cup, the defender is preparing to make his Champions League debut.
“It’s a very big season because I’ll be playing in the Champions League for the first time, and I’m looking forward to this. I hope I’m prepared for it and injury-free,” he said.
The former Boavista defender joined Olympiacos in January and made nine league appearances during the club’s double-winning campaign. Since his Super Eagles debut in September 2023, he has earned 15 caps and become a regular presence in Nigeria’s backline.
“We know the pressure is there,” he said. “But we are ready to do our job and fight for qualification.”
