Super Eagles head coach Éric Chelle has spoken out about speculation linking him with the managerial role at Olympique de Marseille, distancing himself from claims of direct involvement.
Speaking on the podcast “Histoires de Foot” (Football Stories), Chelle clarified that while his agency made contact with the French Ligue 1 side, he personally had no discussions with the club’s hierarchy.
“I had absolutely no contact with the OM management,” Chelle said.
“I signed with an agency with the aim of developing and growing as a coach. My agents decided to sound out some clubs in Europe, particularly in France.
“At that time, OM was looking for a coach. My agency contacted the club to offer me the position. We didn’t do anything further. Shortlist or no shortlist, I had no contact whatsoever.”
Chelle added that any further details regarding his inclusion on a shortlist would have to be addressed by his representatives.
“Afterwards, you’d have to ask my agent if I was on a list or not. Since I’m from the region, I talked with a few friends who asked me if I’d be interested.
“I’m an OM supporter, and if someone asks me if I’d like it, of course. But under no circumstances did I ask for any publicity about it. With social media, it just blew up.”
Chelle signed a two-year deal as head coach of the Nigeria national football team in January 2025. The Malian tactician later led Nigeria to a third-place finish at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, further strengthening his reputation on the continental stage.
