Super Eagles Manager Eric Chelle Breaks Silence on Olympique Marseille Job Speculation
Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has publicly addressed the swirling rumors connecting him to the vacant managerial position at French Ligue 1 giants Olympique de Marseille. In a candid interview, the Malian tactician provided detailed clarification on the nature of the speculation and his personal involvement.
Clarifying the Contact and Agency Role
Speaking during an extensive appearance on the popular French football podcast "Histoires de foot" (Football Stories), Chelle explained the precise sequence of events that led to the rumors. He stated unequivocally, "I had absolutely no contact with the OM management." The coach elaborated that while his professional representation did reach out to the club, this was done without his direct initiation or subsequent follow-up.
"I signed with an agency with the aim of developing and growing as a coach," Chelle noted. "My agents decided to sound out some clubs in Europe, particularly in France. At that time, OM was looking for a coach. My agency contacted the club to offer me the position. We didn't do anything further. Shortlist or no shortlist, I had no contact whatsoever."
Personal Connections and Social Media Amplification
Chelle, who hails from the Marseille region and is a self-professed supporter of the club, acknowledged that informal discussions with friends may have contributed to the speculation. "Since I'm from the region, I talked with a few friends who asked me if I'd be interested," he admitted. "I'm an OM supporter, and if someone asks me if I'd like it, of course. But under no circumstances did I ask for any publicity about it. With social media, it just blew up."
The coach emphasized that any list inclusion would be a matter for his agents, stating, "Afterwards, you'd have to ask my agent if I was on a list or not." This distinction highlights the separation between his professional representation's activities and his personal communications.
Current Commitment to the Super Eagles
Eric Chelle remains firmly committed to his role with the Nigerian national team, having signed a two-year contract as Super Eagles head coach in January 2025. Under his leadership, Nigeria achieved a commendable third-place finish at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations held in Morocco. This success has solidified his position and focus on the Nigerian football project.
The clarification comes amid ongoing speculation in European football circles, but Chelle's statements aim to put the rumors to rest while affirming his dedication to his current responsibilities with the Super Eagles.
