Nigeria head coach Eric Chelle applied for the managerial position at Olympique Marseille while still under contract with the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), after the federation rejected a detailed proposal submitted in January.
According to journalist Shina Oludare, Chelle presented a 19-point document on 22 January 2026 requesting a significant adjustment to his monthly remuneration package.
At the centre of the submission was a proposal to increase payments from $50,000 to $130,000, a figure intended to cover Chelle’s salary alongside those of his technical staff and personal assistant.
Super Eagles Technical bench. Photo Credit: Imago
The federation reportedly declined the request amid concerns over affordability and broader discussions about coaching remuneration within Nigerian football, leaving Chelle dissatisfied and open to opportunities elsewhere.
In preparation for a possible move, Chelle also ended his working relationship with long-time associate Sidibe Abraham Brehima and signed with Wilders Sport, a change viewed as part of efforts to strengthen his prospects in Europe.
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The Ligue 1 club instead appointed former Senegal international Habib Beye on Wednesday evening, effectively ending Chelle’s hopes of taking charge.
NSC DG Olopade and Chelle. Photo Credit: NSC/X
The NFF has previously faced challenges with qdelayed payments to players and staff, meaning a $130,000 monthly commitment could add considerable pressure to its budget.
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Sustaining such an increase would likely depend on securing additional funding streams or undertaking wider adjustments to its financial framework, particularly as revenue flows from government support and sponsorship remain inconsistent.
