Olympique de Marseille have appointed former captain Habib Beye as their new head coach, ending speculation that had linked Eric Chelle with the role.
Beye replaces Roberto De Zerbi, who departed following a heavy defeat to rivals Paris Saint-Germain earlier this month.
The decision marks a swift return to management for Beye, who was dismissed by Stade Rennais FC just over a week ago.
Beye. Photo Credit: Imago
Chelle overlooked in coaching search
Chelle, currently head coach of the Super Eagles, had been mentioned among potential candidates during Marseille’s search for a successor to De Zerbi.
However, the club ultimately opted for Beye, citing his strong connection to Marseille and familiarity with the club’s environment as key factors behind the appointment.
Beye will be officially unveiled on Thursday and is expected to take charge of his first match on Friday away to Stade Brestois 29.
Eric Chelle. Photo Credit: Imago
Marseille sit fourth in Ligue 1 with 12 matches remaining, still in contention for UEFA Champions League qualification while also preparing for a Coupe de France quarter-final.
Nnadi still missing from sessions
The coaching change comes amid continued uncertainty surrounding Nigerian midfielder Tochukwu Nnadi.
The 22-year-old, who joined Marseille from SV Zulte Waregem earlier this month in a reported €6m deal, has yet to feature for the first team.
Photo Credit: Marseille/X
Recent training footage released by the club ahead of the Brest clash again showed Nnadi absent from group activities, extending his lack of involvement since arriving in France.
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While no official explanation has been provided for his absence, the midfielder has not appeared in matchday squads or open training sessions since completing his move.
Homecoming for Beye
A former Senegal international full-back, Beye played for Marseille between 2003 and 2007, sharing the dressing room with Didier Drogba and helping the club reach the 2004 UEFA Cup final.
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He also represented RC Strasbourg Alsace before moving to England for spells with Newcastle United, Aston Villa and Doncaster Rovers.
