Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has emerged as a shock candidate to take over the vacant managerial position at Olympique Marseille, following the departure of Roberto De Zerbi, Footy-Africa can exclusively confirm.
The Italian manager joined the French club in 2024 but left his role by mutual agreement in the wake of their dismal 5-0 defeat to champions Paris Saint-Germain last Sunday, leaving them 12 points off top spot.
According to fresh reports, Chelle has been considered as one of the names to replace the former Brighton manager at the club.
The Franco-Malian enjoyed an impressive outing with Nigeria at the 2025 African Cup of Nations campaign in Morocco, where he guided them to a third-placed finish, earning widespread accolades for his remarkable improvement of the team.
The Nigerian head coach was also spotted at the Stade Velodrome earlier this month for Marseille’s Coupe de France Round of 16 win over Rennes, where he linked up with Tochukwu Nnadi, who recently joined the club, after the match.
Tochukwu Nnadi completes Marseille move: €6m fee + wages – Transfer breakdown
Chelle is considered a strong candidate for the role, majorly due to his immediate availability. He can step in as interim manager until the end of the season and is also based in Martigues in France, which is only a short distance from the Stade Velodrome.
However, the Super Eagles head coach faces tough competition for the role. Former Rennes manager Habib Beye is the leading contender and boasts strong links to the club after serving as Marseille’s captain during his playing career. Former Algeria coach Djamel Belmadi is another candidate for the job, with the added advantage of also staying close to the club.
Marseille sporting director Medhi Benatia is yet to make contact with Chelle, although the situation is expected to become clearer in the coming days.
Super Eagles boss Eric Chelle holds contract extension negotiations
Chelle’s attacking style of play fits Marseille’s philosophy and he could represent a short-term alternative as they look to finish the season strongly before appointing a permanent manager.
However, he lacks experience managing a top-flight European club, having spent most of his coaching career at international level. It also remains unclear how serious the interest is, given that he still has a year left in his contract at the Nigerian national team.
