Super Eagles Coach Eric Chelle Receives Major Backing for Vacant Olympique Marseille Job
Former Nimes coach Nicolas Usai has publicly endorsed Eric Chelle for the vacant managerial position at Olympique de Marseille, adding significant weight to the Super Eagles coach's candidacy. This development comes as Marseille searches for stability following Roberto De Zerbi's departure after a crushing 5-0 defeat to Paris Saint-Germain.
Chelle's Credentials Strengthen His Case
Eric Chelle's work with the Nigerian national team has positioned him as a serious contender for the French club's top job. The Malian-born coach guided the Super Eagles to a third-place finish at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, earning widespread praise for implementing an attacking style while improving defensive organization throughout the tournament.
His ability to manage elite-level players like Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman has been particularly noted as evidence of his readiness for a demanding club environment. Chelle's background further strengthens his candidacy, as the 47-year-old holds French citizenship through his father and enjoyed a lengthy playing career in France with clubs including Lens and Valenciennes.
Usai's Public Endorsement
Speaking on a French football program, Nicolas Usai acknowledged the experience of other candidates like Hervé Renard and Bruno Genesio but emphasized that Chelle's recent achievements should not be overlooked. "Chelle has demonstrated exceptional tactical understanding and player management skills with the Super Eagles," Usai stated, highlighting how the coach's success on the international stage has caught the attention of French football observers.
Usai specifically pointed to Chelle's capacity to bridge different football cultures as a valuable trait for Marseille, which has historically valued managers who can connect with diverse playing styles and backgrounds. This endorsement comes at a crucial time as Marseille's hierarchy seeks to restore stability following a period of turbulence at the Orange Velodrome.
Competitive Managerial Race
Despite Usai's strong support for Chelle, the Marseille managerial race remains highly competitive. Reports indicate that former Real Madrid manager Xabi Alonso was approached but declined the opportunity, unconvinced by the conditions offered by the French club.
Meanwhile, fresh reports suggest Habib Beye is close to being confirmed as the next head coach, pending formal clearance from Stade Rennais. The former Marseille defender is believed to have accepted a short-term deal, which would facilitate quicker negotiations at a time when the club urgently needs direction.
Owner Frank McCourt is understood to be particularly keen on restoring stability after De Zerbi's exit and ongoing uncertainty surrounding the sporting director role. The club's hierarchy recognizes the need for decisive action following the embarrassing defeat to PSG that exposed growing instability within the organization.
NFF's Contractual Position
Complicating matters for Chelle is his current contractual situation with the Nigeria Football Federation. The Super Eagles coach is under contract with the NFF until January 2027, having been appointed in January 2025 following the dismissal of Jose Peseiro and the resignation of Finidi George after poor results in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.
The NFF has reportedly issued a strong warning to Chelle amid interest from other African nations and clubs, including Olympique Marseille. This creates a potential obstacle for any move, as Marseille would need to negotiate with Nigerian football authorities or wait until Chelle's contract nears expiration.
Chelle's growing reputation in African football, combined with his French domestic experience, has created an intriguing profile that Marseille's decision-makers must carefully consider as they weigh their options for the crucial managerial position.
