Chelle Emerges As Top Candidate For Vacant Marseille Role 24 Hrs After NFF Assurance

Chelle Emerges As Top Candidate For Vacant Marseille Role 24 Hrs After NFF Assurance 

By Sampson Adedeji 

French Ligue 1 club Olympique Marseille are reportedly considering a move for Nigeria national team head coach Eric Chelle, raising uncertainty over his future with the Super Eagles.

The development comes just 24 hours after Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) president Ibrahim Gusau publicly expressed confidence in Chelle’s long-term commitment to the national team. However, Marseille’s managerial vacancy has intensified speculation that the French club could attempt to lure the Franco-Malian tactician away from his current role.

Marseille have been without a head coach since the departure of Roberto De Zerbi last weekend, prompting the club to accelerate its search for a replacement ahead of the second half of the season.

Chelle, who signed a two-year contract with the NFF in January 2025, has seen his stock rise significantly following Nigeria’s impressive campaign at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco. Under his leadership, the Super Eagles were widely praised for their tactical discipline, organisation and renewed competitiveness.

Reports in France indicate that Chelle has emerged as one of the leading candidates on Marseille’s shortlist, alongside former Senegal international and coach Habib Beye. The club is said to be weighing its options carefully as it looks to stabilise its season.

The 47-year-old has reportedly attracted interest from several clubs and national teams in recent weeks, but Marseille’s immediate need for a head coach could accelerate formal discussions.

For the Nigeria Football Federation, the situation represents a significant challenge. Chelle has been credited with restoring structure and belief within the Super Eagles setup, and any potential departure would force the federation to reassess its technical direction at a crucial stage.