'I know him' - Ex-Nimes coach hails Eric Chelle's work with Super Eagles, backs him for Marseille job

'I know him' - Ex-Nimes coach hails Eric Chelle's work with Super Eagles, backs him for Marseille job

Former Nîmes coach Nicolas Usaï has thrown his support behind Eric Chelle as speculation intensifies over the vacant managerial role at French club Marseille. 

The Phocaeans are searching for a new permanent coach after Roberto De Zerbi left his role as manager by mutual consent following their 5-0 defeat to Paris Saint-Germain on February 8.

In recent days, Hervé Renard, Bruno Genesio and Eric Chelle have all been linked with the vacant managerial job at Marseille.

Under contract with the Nigeria Football Federation until January 2027, the Malian guided Nigeria to a third place finish at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, with the Super Eagles playing some exciting football, particularly in the matches leading up to the semifinals.

While also acknowledging the pedigree of Renard and Genesio, Usaï stressed that Chelle's impressive work with the Super Eagles and his management of top-level players such as Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman and Alex iwobi underline his credentials. 

"Hervé Renard is a top coach, but he's preparing for a World Cup with a national team, and his contract must be difficult to terminate. For Bruno Genesio, the question is one of timing and momentum. In Marseille, they often expect a bold, sometimes unexpected, choice, as was the case with Igor Tudor," ," Nicolas Usaï said on Talk Show, via lephoceen.

"Regarding Eric Chelle, I know him well. He did excellent work with the African national team and some very high-level players. Why not? In this profession, careers change quickly."

Chelle, who holds French citizenship through his father, enjoyed a distinguished playing career in France, representing Martigues, Valenciennes, Lens, Istres and Chamois Niortais.

Ifeanyi Emmanuel 

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