Nigeria’s head coach Eric Chelle is intensifying efforts to strengthen the Super Eagles with foreign-born talent, even as French giants Olympique de Marseille weigh up a move for him.
The Malian tactician has already secured commitments from defenders Felix Agu and Ryan Alebiosu, along with Wrexham goalkeeper Arthur Okonkwo.
Rangers centre-back Emmanuel Fernandez is the latest to pledge his international future to Nigeria.
Speaking on the influx of overseas-born players, Chelle stressed that selection will be merit-based.
“We have a couple of players who were born abroad, who want to play for the team and we are looking at how they will fit in. We can’t bring all of them into the team. We will however pick those that we know can bring competition to the team, improve the team and also fit our game project,” he said.
Fernandez, 24, was born in London to Nigerian parents. He has impressed in the Scottish League this season, scoring four goals in 17 appearances and winning Rangers’ Player of the Month award in January.
He was reportedly close to joining Borussia Dortmund during the winter transfer window and is expected to feature in Chelle’s plans for March fixtures.
Dual-Nationality Influence
Nigeria’s third-place finish at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco underscored the growing role of dual-nationality players.
The squad included Semi Ajayi, Calvin Bassey, Alex Iwobi, Ademola Lookman, Alebiosu and Fisayo Dele-Bashiru, reflecting Chelle’s deliberate blend of homegrown talent and overseas-developed stars.
With competition for places intensifying, Chelle’s recruitment drive signals a new phase in the Super Eagles’ evolution — one built on depth, diversity and tactical balance.
Marseille Interest
Meanwhile, Marseille are considering Chelle as a candidate for their vacant managerial post.
Club president Pablo Longoria is reportedly keen on a short-term deal that could extend if Chelle delivers success.
Marseille Club president Pablo Longoria
French journalist Fabrice Romain revealed that Chelle has formally applied for the job, presenting himself as a stabilizing option.
Reports suggest Marseille could offer him a four-month contract, with a one-year extension clause if he wins the Coupe de France and secures third place in Ligue 1.
Chelle’s emergence follows his solid spell with Nigeria, where he guided the team to AFCON bronze and remains under contract with the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) until 2027.
NFF Response
NFF President Ibrahim Gusau has downplayed speculation of losing Chelle.
“We still have a one-year contract with Eric, and whatever interest anyone shows in him will have to wait until his contract expires,” Gusau said. He added that Chelle enjoys working with Nigeria and believes he can achieve his dreams in Africa.
Since his appointment in January 2025, Chelle has overseen 18 matches, recording 12 wins and six draws, though two ended in penalty shootout defeats.
Beyond current speculation, Chelle has spoken openly of building a managerial profile strong enough to one day break new ground as the first African to lead Real Madrid.
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