Nigeria head coach Eric Chelle has emerged as the frontrunner for the Olympique Marseille coaching job.
The French Ligue 1 giants are in hunt for new tactician following the departure of Italian manager of Roberto de Zerbi last week. The former Brighton and Hove Albion gaffer was shown the exit door after Marseille’s 5-0 defeat to Paris Saint Germain in the French Ligue 1 clash.
Per reports, the former Mali trainer has emerged as the leading candidate for the vacant post, pushing Franco-Senegalese gaffer Habib Beye down the list of favorites.
Chelle is currently in Paris and has already entered into active negotiations with Marseille, who are seeking a reliable leader to stabilize the team’s situation. His candidacy now seems both more accessible and promising under the current circumstances, compared Beye, whose situation with Rennes remain unresolved.
Meanwhile, the Nigeria Football Federation has firmly denied reports linking Super Eagles head coach to the vacant Marseille job.
Speaking to BSNSport, Mohammed Sanusi, who id the General Secretary of the Nigerian FA played down the rumors, insisting there is no truth to the claims.
“As far as I know, there is nothing like that. We are not aware of any contract between Chelle and Olympique Marseille,” Sanusi stated.
Eric Chelle is widely regarded as a disciplined, tactically grounded coach whose philosophy is built on structure, balance, and collective responsibility. A former professional defender, his coaching outlook is heavily influenced by his playing background, placing strong emphasis on defensive organisation and game management.
Chelle rose to prominence on the African scene during his time with the Mali national football team, where he earned plaudits for moulding a compact, competitive side capable of matching Africa’s elite. His teams are known for their physical intensity, tactical clarity, and mental resilience.
He later assumed the demanding role of head coach of the Super Eagles, bringing a calm, methodical approach to a squad rich in individual talent. On the training ground, Chelle is meticulous, focusing on shape, transitions, and discipline both in and out of possession.
Reserved in demeanor and low-key off the pitch, Chelle prioritises long-term development over headlines, positioning himself as a coach who values identity, consistency, and results-driven football.
