“A big loss” – Super Eagles boss Chelle urged to combine Nigeria, Marseille jobs

Former Nigeria international Friday Ekpo has urged Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle not to walk away from his national team role even if he is offered the chance to take charge of French giants Olympique Marseille, Afrik-Foot reports.

Marseille are currently searching for a new manager after reaching a mutual agreement to terminate Roberto de Zerbi’s contract, with the club acting swiftly following a heavy 5-0 league defeat to Paris Saint-Germain.

Chelle has emerged as one of the names being linked with the vacant position, with reports suggesting the Franco-Malian coach is being considered as a potential replacement. His growing reputation, built on an impressive coaching journey and recent success with Nigeria, has made him an attractive option in Ligue 1.

Nigeria head coach, Eric Sékou Chelle has emerged as a potential candidate for Olympique de Marseille after being recommended by intermediaries in recent days. pic.twitter.com/c06sJXyopl

— Ojora Babatunde (@ojbsports) February 11, 2026

Despite the European interest, Chelle remains fully engaged with his responsibilities as Super Eagles boss. After guiding Nigeria to a third-place finish at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, both the Nigeria Football Federation and the National Sports Commission are understood to be working towards extending his contract.

While the Marseille role could mark a major step forward in Chelle’s career and move him closer to his long-term ambition of managing at the highest level in Europe, Ekpo believes Nigeria should not allow him to leave at this crucial stage.

Chelle: Ekpo calls for long-term Nigeria deal

Ekpo, who won AFCON silver with Nigeria in 1992, insists losing Chelle now would be a significant setback for the Super Eagles.

Chelle is reportedly among several candidates being considered by Marseille, alongside former club captain Habib Beye, who recently coached Stade Rennais. Reacting to the reports, the former midfielder said that the NFF must act quickly to secure Chelle’s future.

Ekpo even suggested that arrangements could be made for Chelle to combine both roles rather than choose between club and country.

“There is a need for the NFF to extend Chelle’s contract before he joins Marseille,” Ekpo told CompleteSports.

“He has done a good job with the Super Eagles, most especially after the impressive display of the team at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, where Nigeria won bronze.

“It will be a big loss if Chelle is allowed to join Marseille because it would have been nice to allow him to continue with his job here in Nigeria.”

Meanwhile, sources close to Marseille have confirmed that Chelle’s name has been recommended through intermediaries, although no formal approach has yet been made by sporting director Medhi Benatia. The French club is still weighing several options, with Beye believed to be the frontrunner.

Chelle’s availability and proximity to Marseille, he is based in Martigues, roughly 10 kilometres from the club’s stadium, have added to his appeal. His AFCON campaign, where Nigeria scored 14 goals in six matches to finish as the tournament’s top scorers, has further enhanced his standing across European football.