Super Eagles and Brentford midfielder Frank Onyeka has expressed his delight at continuing to work under head coach Eric Chelle, describing the Franco Malian tactician as a positive and influential figure within the national team.
Onyeka highlighted Chelle’s man-management skills, approachability, and tactical clarity, noting that the coach creates an environment where players feel comfortable and confident in executing their roles on the pitch.
According to the midfielder, working with Chelle has been one of the most rewarding experiences of his international career.
“Eric Chelle is a good man. We love him. He’s a nice guy someone you feel comfortable around and he tries to make you feel comfortable as well,” Onyeka said.
“Having him as a coach is something I’m really happy about. The way he wants us to play is very open-minded. He gives everyone opportunities, and a lot of the players love him. Having Eric Chelle as manager is one of the best things that has happened to me since I started playing for the national team.”
Onyeka’s performances for the Super Eagles have notably improved under Chelle, with his best run of form coming during the recent Africa Cup of Nations.
The energetic midfielder featured in four matches during Nigeria’s run to the final and delivered consistently strong displays.
Also read: Super Eagles Progress Excites Udi, Calls for New Contract for Eric Chelle
Operating mainly as a deep lying midfielder, Onyeka anchored the midfield with discipline and intensity, excelling in ball recovery, defensive duels, and distribution.
He completed 109 passes at an impressive 89 percent success rate, recorded 194 touches, won 23 duels, made eight interceptions, completed 17 ball recoveries, and regained possession four times in the final third.
His work rate, tactical awareness, and ability to “do the dirty work” in midfield were crucial in maintaining balance and control for the Super Eagles as they claimed bronze.
