Eric Chelle has come up in discussions at Olympique de Marseille following the club’s decision to part ways with Roberto De Zerbi, Footynaija.com reports.
The situation leaves the Ligue 1 club without a head coach days before their next home match against Strasbourg at the Stade Vélodrome.
It has pushed Marseille into internal talks over short term solutions, with the Super Eagles boss mentioned as a possible interim option while the club weigh their next move.
Related Post
The Italian coach’s exit was confirmed yesterday, in a development of that ended a short spell that failed to settle results or dressing room stability.
French outlet La Provence places Chelle’s name among those discussed internally, mainly because he is available and close to the club. The Nigeria head coach is not scheduled for international duty until the end of the season, following the conclusion of recent engagements with the national team.
That gap makes it feasible to make a short-term appointment. The Franco-Malian coach has remained active in his scouting role, recently attending a match involving Nigerian youngster Tochukwu Nnadi.
Adding to his international managerial experience, the 48-year-old boasts a long playing career in France, where he spent 16 years with teams including Valenciennes, Lens and Istres.
It is however understood that Marseille’s sporting director Medhi Benatia has not opened contact with the Nigerian coach, showing that discussions are still in the early stages.
In France, Habib Beye, former Marseille captain recently dismissed by Rennes, is seen as the leading option for the permanent role. He has strong ties to the club and has openly indicated interest in the job.
He was once quoted as saying, “I’ll run there,” when asked if he would be interested to return to the Vélodrome in a senior role.
French regional press place him ahead of other candidates as Marseille map out their long term plan.
Marseille also have other internal alternatives. But at the time of reporting, Marseille are weighing their options while keeping Beye in view for a longer stay.
