Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has been linked with the vacant managerial position at French Ligue 1 club Olympique de Marseille.
The club is searching for a new boss after parting ways with Italian coach Roberto De Zerbi earlier this week.
The 48-year-old Malian-French coach — who made history as the first non-Nigerian African to lead Nigeria’s senior men’s team — is among the names being considered.
De Zerbi left Marseille “by mutual agreement,” the club said, after a heavy 5-0 loss to Paris Saint-Germain and a disappointing Champions League exit.
Under Chelle’s leadership, the Super Eagles finished third at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, earning praise for improved tactical play.
That success is one reason his name is reportedly in the mix for the Marseille job.
He was also seen at Marseille’s Stade Vélodrome during a Coupe de France match, a visit that has fuelled speculation about the potential move.
However, reports note that Chelle is not necessarily the frontrunner for the role, with former Marseille defender and Red Star FC manager Habib Beye widely seen as a leading candidate because of his strong ties to the club.
The Nigeria Football Federation has not officially commented on the Marseille link, but recent federation statements have emphasised that Chelle remains under contract and central to Nigeria’s football plans, suggesting any move would depend on timing and opportunity.
Chelle took charge of the Super Eagles in 2024 and has overseen a period of steady progress, making him an attractive figure in coaching circles both in Africa and Europe.
The NFF is currently in talks to extend his contract with the national team.
