“I Don’t See €100 Million — I See the Man”: Coach Eric Chelle Speaks on Managing Osimhen

Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has made it clear that price tags and transfer market figures don’t influence how he manages his players, not even superstar striker Victor Osimhen, who is currently valued at over €100 million.

Speaking on the Impact by Tiguida podcast ahead of Nigeria’s crucial World Cup playoff final against DR Congo, Chelle dismissed the notion that managing a high-value player requires special treatment.

Osimhen, who joined Galatasaray for a Turkish-record €75 million, is widely regarded as one of the most valuable footballers on the continent and across Europe. Yet, for Chelle, such numbers mean nothing when it comes to leadership and team harmony.

“When I am in front of the player, I don’t see the €100 million; I see the superstar that you have to manage,” he said.

“For me, he is the best striker in the world, but it’s not the superstar that interests me — it is the man.”

Chelle explained that his priority is building a culture of discipline, protection, and trust.

“The first thing you do when you take over a team is establish rules. We need structure so everyone feels safe — players, staff, officials.
Once there is protection, people can express themselves internally.”

With 50 individuals involved in the national team setup, Chelle stressed the need for a stable environment where players can thrive beyond fame or financial worth.

Opinion: Chelle’s Approach Is Exactly What Nigeria Needs

In an era where football conversations revolve more around market value than actual value on the pitch, Eric Chelle’s mindset is refreshing — and honestly, necessary.

Managing a player like Osimhen can be overwhelming for many coaches. The hype, the pressure, the global attention — it’s enough to distort judgment or create unnecessary hierarchy. But Chelle sees beyond the glamour. He sees a human being first, a footballer second, and a price tag never.

This philosophy carries a powerful message:
Success is built on discipline, structure, and emotional intelligence — not the digits in a transfer fee.

And more importantly:
A team can only function when every player feels respected, safe, and guided by clear rules.

Nigeria has often struggled with managerial instability, ego clashes, and inconsistent systems. Chelle’s approach shows maturity, humility, and an understanding of modern football culture. Treating Osimhen like a man, not a market asset, will only strengthen the bond within the team.

If the Super Eagles are to fly to the 2026 World Cup, this balance of firm leadership and human connection might just be the fuel they need.