French Ligue 1 side Olympique Marseille are
reportedly considering a move for Nigeria national team head coach Eric
Chelle, casting 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 current managerial vacancy has intensified speculation that the
French club could attempt to lure the Franco-Malian tactician away.
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, enhanced his reputation following Nigeria’s strong outing at the
2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco. Under his leadership, the Super
Eagles earned praise for their tactical discipline, structure, and renewed
competitiveness.
Reports in France suggest Chelle is among the leading
candidates on Marseille’s shortlist, alongside former Senegal international and
coach Habib Beye. The club is said to be carefully assessing its options
as it seeks stability.
For the NFF, any potential departure would pose a
significant challenge. Chelle has been credited with restoring belief and
organisation within the national setup, and losing him at this stage would
force the federation to reassess its technical direction during a crucial
period.
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