Super Eagles head coach Éric Chelle has emerged as one of the frontrunners for the vacant head coaching position at French Ligue 1 side Olympique Marseille.
The Marseille role became available after the club parted ways with Roberto De Zerbi by mutual agreement on Tuesday, prompting a search for a new manager capable of steering the team to success both domestically and in Europe.
According to football journalist Lassana Camara, Chelle is among the top candidates being considered, alongside Senegalese coach Habib Beye, who was recently dismissed by fellow French club Stade Rennes. The presence of two African coaches on the shortlist underscores the growing recognition of African managerial talent in European football.
Chelle, 48, has seen his profile rise significantly following an impressive outing with Nigeria at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, where he guided the Super Eagles to a third-place finish. His tactical intelligence and strong man-management skills have attracted widespread praise and international attention.
The coach is currently under contract with the Nigerian Football Federation until January 2027. Although no official discussions with Olympique Marseille have been confirmed, speculation persists that the French club views Chelle as a strong option to revitalise the team following De Zerbi’s exit.
If appointed, Chelle would further cement the growing influence of African coaches in Europe’s top leagues, reinforcing Nigeria’s reputation for producing football excellence both on and off the pitch.
Elijah Adeyemi
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