Veteran Nigerian coach Salisu Yusuf is reportedly being considered for a return to the national team setup as part of Eric Chelle’s expanded technical crew, with links to the Olympic Eagles (U23) gaining attention.
According to reports, Yusuf is among the candidates being evaluated to serve as an assistant to Chelle, who recently saw his responsibilities broadened to include oversight of Nigeria’s U23 national team alongside his role as Super Eagles head coach.
While no official appointment has been announced by the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), the reports have already generated widespread discussion among Nigerian football supporters.
Experienced Coach Back in the Frame
Yusuf is one of the most experienced coaches in Nigerian football, having served in several capacities within the national team structure over the past decade.
The 64-year-old previously worked as assistant coach of the Super Eagles under Gernot Rohr and has also managed the Olympic Eagles, overseeing Nigeria’s U23 side during various qualification campaigns.
His extensive knowledge of domestic football and familiarity with emerging Nigerian talent are believed to be among the reasons he is being considered for another role within the national team setup.
Controversial Past Remains a Talking Point
Any potential return for Yusuf is likely to attract scrutiny due to events surrounding his suspension in 2018.
The veteran coach was handed a one-year suspension and fined by the NFF after appearing in a BBC Africa undercover investigation in which he was filmed accepting cash linked to player selection for the African Nations Championship (CHAN).
Yusuf maintained that the money was a gift and insisted it had no influence on his selection decisions. Following the completion of his suspension, he was reinstated and later returned to coaching duties within Nigerian football.
That episode continues to divide opinion among supporters whenever his name is linked with national team appointments.
Mixed Reaction from Fans
Reports of Yusuf’s possible appointment have sparked varied reactions across social media.
Some supporters believe his experience, particularly his understanding of the Nigeria Professional Football League and youth development, could provide valuable support for Chelle as he manages both the Super Eagles and the Olympic Eagles.
Others, however, have questioned whether the federation should instead pursue fresh coaching ideas, citing both Yusuf’s previous tenure with the U23 team and the controversy surrounding his past suspension.
Chelle Building His Backroom Staff
Since taking charge in January 2025, Chelle has focused on establishing greater stability within Nigeria’s national team setup.
With the Super Eagles and Olympic Eagles both under his supervision, assembling an experienced technical team is expected to be a key priority as preparations continue for upcoming international competitions and future FIFA World Cup qualification campaigns.
The inclusion of experienced local coaches alongside Chelle’s own staff could help strengthen the pathway between youth and senior national teams.
Awaiting Official Confirmation
For now, Yusuf’s reported return remains speculative, with the Nigeria Football Federation yet to confirm any appointments to Chelle’s backroom staff.
Should the move be approved, it would mark another chapter in Yusuf’s long association with Nigerian football and provide Chelle with an experienced domestic voice as he continues shaping the future of the Super Eagles and Olympic Eagles.
Until an official announcement is made, however, discussions surrounding Yusuf’s potential appointment remain firmly in the realm of reports and speculation.
