French Ligue 1 side Olympique Marseille are reportedly interested in Nigeria’s Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle as they search for a new manager.
This comes just a day after NFF President Ibrahim Gusau publicly stated his confidence in Chelle’s long-term commitment to the national team.
Marseille have been without a head coach since Roberto De Zerbi left the club by mutual agreement last weekend (following recent heavy defeats, including a 5-0 loss to PSG). 
Chelle, who signed a two-year deal with the NFF in January 2025 (running until 2027), has boosted his reputation after leading Nigeria to a strong showing at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco — where the Super Eagles earned praise for their tactical discipline, organisation, and competitiveness (finishing third/bronze).
French reports suggest Chelle is among the leading candidates on Marseille’s shortlist, alongside names like former Senegal international Habib Beye. The club is carefully considering options to steady their season in the second half.
The 47/48-year-old Franco-Malian coach has reportedly drawn attention from various clubs and national teams lately, but Marseille’s urgent vacancy could speed up any potential talks.
For the NFF, this presents a key challenge: Chelle is credited with bringing structure and renewed belief to the Super Eagles, and a departure would require the federation to rethink its technical plans at an important time.