Super Eagles boss Éric Chelle makes bold move for vacant Marseille job

Éric Chelle has taken a bold step in his coaching career by officially applying for the vacant manager’s job at Olympique de Marseille, Afrik-Foot reports.

The Malian-born coach, who is currently in charge of Nigeria’s national team, has personally made contact with club president Pablo Longoria to present himself as the right man to lead the French giants. This is according to French journalist Fabrice Romain.

🚨🔵⚪️ #OM

EXCL: Éric Chelle a posé sa candidature pour le poste d’entraîneur de l’OM !

Le technicien malien a pris les devants suite à la démission de Mehdi Benatia et a pris contact avec Pablo Longoria.

En privé, il dit avoir « les couilles » pour être l’homme de la… pic.twitter.com/DH7Od0qZMV

— Fabrice Romain (@FabriceRom_) February 15, 2026

Marseille are searching for a new boss after the exit of Roberto De Zerbi, and recent favourite Habib Beye is no longer expected to take the role. French media reports say talks around Beye have broken down, forcing Marseille to look elsewhere.

Chelle’s move has surprised many in France, but it shows his strong belief in his ability. In private conversations, he has made it clear he feels ready for the pressure and challenge of managing a club as big as Marseille.

The 48-year-old is under contract with Nigeria until 2027, but his interest in the Marseille job suggests he is open to a quick return to club football after working mainly at international level in recent years.

Eric Chelle: A brave bid in a crowded race

Despite submitting his application, getting the role remains a long shot for Chelle who has been advised to snub Marseille for the Super Eagles.

Chelle’s club coaching experience is limited, having previously worked with smaller sides such as Martigues and Boulogne. That lack of experience at a top European club could count against him, but Marseille’s leaders are clearly listening to his proposal.

Another unexpected name linked with the job is Pierre Aristouy, who last coached at FC Nantes. Although he impressed in parts of his short spell there, he has been out of work since late 2023.

Marseille are also considering more experienced options. One of them is Sergio Conceição, who is currently under contract in Saudi Arabia but is said to be interested in the challenge. However, his release clause and fiery personality could make a deal difficult.

Former Paris Saint-Germain boss Christophe Galtier has also been mentioned, while the club could decide to stick for now with interim coach Pancho Abardonado as they take more time to choose carefully.

What is clear for now is that Éric Chelle has officially put himself forward and in doing so, has added a new twist to Marseille’s search for their next manager.