Confirmed: Marseille deal off for Eric Chelle as Ligue 1 giants employ new coach

Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle is no longer in contention for the managerial vacancy at Marseille, as the Ligue 1 club has officially announced the appointment of a new head coach, Afrik-Foot reports.

​Since the conclusion of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in January, Chelle’s future has remained uncertain, with the tactician being linked to several high-profile roles.

His name has been mentioned around some national team vacancies in Angola, Tunisia, and Algeria. Most recently, he was heavily linked to Olympique Marseille following the dismissal of Roberto De Zerbi two weeks ago.

​Given Chelle’s deep-rooted connections to French football, these rumors gained significant traction. He also raised eyebrows on Wednesday, February 19, when he joined a new football agency—a move often seen as a precursor to a career change.

​The ongoing rumors regarding his future have cast a shadow over the Super Eagles, particularly with a FIFA international window scheduled for next month.

Nigeria is also awaiting the resolution of a FIFA inquiry into the DR Congo case, which could potentially grant the Super Eagles a spot in the World Cup playoffs.

​Marseille Opt for Habib Beye Over Eric Chelle

​In a recent development, Marseille confirmed the appointment of Habib Beye as their new head coach on Wednesday night. This official move effectively ends any possibility of Chelle taking the reins at the Stade Vélodrome.

The Habib Beye era begins at Marseille 💙 pic.twitter.com/C3ZWjUCrzw

— Ligue 1 English (@Ligue1_ENG) February 18, 2026

​Despite the Marseille door closing, interest from other African nations persists. With only one year remaining on his current contract and the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) pussyfooting over an extension, the possibility of an exit remains high.

​Furthermore, several African teams monitoring Chelle’s situation can guarantee him a spot in this year’s World Cup—a luxury Nigeria does not currently have. This could prove incredibly tempting for the former Mali boss.

​While the NFF has expressed a desire to retain his services, actions must speak louder than words.

To quash the speculation once and for all, the federation must move beyond verbal assurances and present a formal contract extension.