Nigeria head coach Eric Chelle has praised Tochukwu Nnadi following the midfielder’s high-profile transfer from Belgian club Zulte Waregem to French giants Olympique Marseille.
Tochukwu Nnadi, 22, who featured in the Super Eagles squad at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco, completed a move to Ligue 1 despite attracting interest from several English Premier League sides, including West Ham United.
Chelle admitted he had long believed Nnadi was destined for a bigger stage.
“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,” the coach told L’Équipe.
The Malian-French tactician, who handed Nnadi his Nigeria debut against Uganda during the 2025 AFCON finals, highlighted the midfielder’s physical presence and tactical discipline.
“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 said.
Chelle also praised Nnadi’s composure and decision-making in possession, stressing that the right environment could accelerate his development.
“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,” the coach said.
“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.”
The Nigerian boss described the young midfielder as a special talent with an edge that could surprise fans in France.
“He’s a real gem, this kid; you’ll be surprised because he can be very aggressive on the pitch,” he said.
Nnadi could make his Olympique Marseille debut this weekend when they face Paris Saint-Germain in a blockbuster Ligue 1 showdown at the Parc des Princes.
