Tochukwu Nnadi of Nigeria during the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations Nigeria Training at Annex 2 Marrakech Stadium in Morocco on 9 January 2025 ©Alche Greeff/BackpagePix
Thursday Feb 05, 2026. 13:00
Nigeria head coach Eric Chelle has reacted to midfielder Tochukwu Nnadi’s transfer from Belgian side Zulte Waregem to French giants Olympique Marseille.
The 22-year-old, who was part of the Super Eagles’ squad at the 2025 AFCON in Morocco, sealed a move to the Ligue 1 side despite being linked with English Premier League clubs, including West Ham United.
“I watched him and wondered what he was still doing in that team. It’s a good move by Olympique Marseille. I expected him to go to the Premier League,” Chelle told L’Équipe.
The Malian-Ivorian-French tactician, who handed Nnadi his Nigeria debut against Uganda during the 2025 AFCON finals, also discussed the player’s abilities.
“He’s very quick, powerful, and capable of winning back possession from opponents, with that aggressive approach over about fifteen meters to chase down the ball carrier,” he continued.
“With the ball, he plays a simple game, using his body to protect it. If he’s in an environment where the players support him and give him confidence, he’ll quickly reach his full potential.
“He’s determined, doesn’t overthink things. When he arrived at his first training session, he impressed everyone and came on against Egypt (in a friendly) with a full session under his belt,” he added.
“He’s a real gem, this kid; you’ll be surprised because he can be very aggressive on the pitch.”
Nnandi could make his Marseille debut when they take on PSG in a blockbuster Ligue 1 clash on Sunday at the Parc des Princes.