Olympique Marseille have stepped up their search for an immediate replacement following the sacking of Roberto De Zerbi.
The club has drawn up a list of candidates, with some actively targeted and others proposed through agents and intermediaries.
In what is a rare development in European football, two African national team head coaches have been shortlisted for the role.
Nigeria senior men’s national team head coach Éric Chelle is among the names under consideration.
According to French media outlet L’Equipe, Chelle has been offered to Marseille.
He impressed in his first year in charge of the Super Eagles, guiding Nigeria to a bronze medal at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.
His team finished as the highest scoring side at the tournament with 14 goals, earning praise for their attacking football.
Chelle has one year remaining on his contract with the Nigeria Football Federation, which is reportedly considering extending his deal.
Even if Marseille make a formal move, the NFF are expected to be reluctant to let him leave due to the progress achieved under his leadership.
Another candidate on Marseille’s list is Morocco head coach Walid Regragui. The 50 year old has led the Atlas Lions since 2022 and has delivered historic achievements with the national team.
He guided Morocco to a fourth place finish at the 2022 World Cup, the first time in history that an African nation reached the semi finals.
Along the way, Morocco defeated Spain and Belgium in remarkable fashion.
Regragui also led Morocco to their first Africa Cup of Nations final in 22 years, where they narrowly lost to Senegal in extra time in a highly contested match.
There were recent reports that he submitted his resignation, but it was rejected by the Royal Moroccan Football Federation, a sign of their continued trust in his project.
Marseille’s challenges are not limited to the search for a new head coach.
There are also concerns at executive level involving sporting director Mehdi Benatia, the former Moroccan international.
Also read: Gusau Confident Eric Chelle Will Remain Super Eagles Coach
Benatia recently submitted his resignation, but it was rejected by club owner Frank McCourt and president Pablo Longoria.
Reports suggest that some players have expressed frustration with his management style and communication.
With uncertainty surrounding both the managerial position and the sporting structure, Marseille face a critical period.
The decision they make in the coming weeks could significantly shape the club’s direction moving forward.
