Super Eagles Coach Eric Chelle Attracts European Interest Amid Real Madrid Ambition
Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle is reportedly attracting significant interest from European club Olympique Marseille, according to recent sports reports. The 48-year-old Franco-Malian tactician, who led Nigeria to a bronze-medal finish at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, is now on the radar of the French giants as they seek a replacement for sacked manager Roberto De Zerbi.
Chelle's Impressive Track Record with Nigeria
The Nigeria Football Federation appointed Eric Chelle in January 2025 following disappointing performances in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers under previous coaches Jose Peseiro and Finidi George. Since taking charge, Chelle has recorded six wins and two draws in World Cup qualifying matches, though Nigeria ultimately finished behind South Africa's Bafana Bafana in CAF Group C, missing automatic qualification.
Despite the World Cup qualification setback, Chelle guided the Super Eagles to the 2025 AFCON tournament where they demonstrated remarkable resilience. After a strong start, Nigeria fell to hosts Morocco 4-2 on penalties in the semifinals but bounced back to secure bronze by defeating Egypt 4-2 in another penalty shootout.
Chelle's first trophy with Nigeria came earlier when the Super Eagles defeated Jamaica on penalties in the Unity Cup final, with midfielder Christantus Uche converting the decisive kick that sealed the victory for the Nigerian side.
Olympique Marseille's Pursuit of Nigerian Coach
French club Olympique Marseille has identified Eric Chelle as a potential replacement for Roberto De Zerbi, who was dismissed following a 5-0 defeat to Paris Saint-Germain on February 8. The club currently sits fourth in Ligue 1 with 39 points, trailing PSG, Lens, and Lyon in the standings.
Olympique Marseille released an official statement regarding De Zerbi's departure: "This was a difficult collective decision, taken after careful consideration in the best interests of the club, in order to respond to the sporting challenges of the end of the season." The club thanked the Italian manager for his "dedication, commitment, professionalism, and seriousness" during his tenure.
Chelle's European coaching experience includes managing two lower-tier French clubs—GS Consolat and FC Martigues—before taking charge of Mali's national team and leading them to the 2023 AFCON tournament in Ivory Coast. His successful transition to international management with both Mali and Nigeria has made him an attractive prospect for European clubs seeking experienced tacticians.
Chelle's Real Madrid Ambition and Contract Situation
Beyond the immediate interest from Olympique Marseille, Eric Chelle has openly expressed his long-term ambition to become the first African coach to manage Spanish giants Real Madrid. This revelation adds another layer to the growing international interest in the Franco-Malian manager's services.
Regarding Chelle's future with Nigeria, NFF President Ibrahim Gusau has indicated the federation's willingness to be patient as the coach completes his remaining 12 months under contract. Gusau stated that the NFF will make a decision about Chelle's continuation based on his performance during this period, suggesting the federation is prepared to wait before initiating contract extension discussions.
The Super Eagles coach recently witnessed the signing of midfielder Tochukwu Nnadi, indicating his continued involvement in Nigerian football development despite the swirling transfer rumors. As European clubs monitor his situation, Chelle remains focused on his duties with the Nigerian national team while potentially considering opportunities that align with his career ambitions.
