Olympique de Marseille have officially appointed Habib Beye as their new head coach on February 18, 2026, bringing back a club legend to try and salvage what has become a disappointing 2025-26 season.
The 48-year-old former Senegal international, who captained Marseille during his playing stint from 2003 to 2007 before moving to Newcastle United, signs an 18-month contract that runs until the summer of 2027.
This marks a swift and sentimental return for Beye, who was surprisingly sacked by Ligue 1 rivals Rennes just over a week earlier following a poor run of results, including a reported fallout with some players and a four-match winless streak that left them mid-table.
Beye replaces Roberto De Zerbi, the Italian tactician whose tenure ended by mutual consent shortly after a humiliating 5-0 defeat to Paris Saint-Germain in Le Classique.
That heavy loss compounded Marseille’s struggles, which also included an early exit from the Champions League and a significant gap in the Ligue 1 standings—currently sitting fourth in the table, trailing leaders Lens by 12 points.
The club, nine-time French champions, are desperate to reignite their campaign, aiming for a return to the podium spots for Champions League qualification and success in the Coupe de France to deliver a long-awaited trophy to the passionate Marseille supporters.
Sporting director Medhi Benatia defended the choice, highlighting Beye’s leadership qualities and commitment during initial discussions. Benatia emphasized that Beye’s profile aligns perfectly with the need to galvanize a squad that has looked demotivated amid recent setbacks, with clear goals set: rapid return to winning ways, a push for a top-three Ligue 1 finish, and a serious run in the domestic cup.
Beye’s deep connection to the club—he is fondly remembered as a former captain who understands the intense environment at the Stade Vélodrome—combined with his recent experience in Ligue 1 (including guiding Red Star to promotion to Ligue 2 before his Rennes spell) made him the preferred option over other candidates.
Eric Chelle, the current Nigeria Super Eagles head coach, had actively positioned himself for the role, reportedly applying and even signing with a Marseille-based agency to strengthen his candidacy amid links to the vacancy.
However, Marseille ultimately prioritized Beye’s familiarity and proven track record in French football, leaving Chelle to remain focused on his national team duties with the Nigeria Football Federation. Some reports suggest Chelle is now eyeing other potential Ligue 1 opportunities to pursue a return to club management.
Beye’s first match in charge comes quickly: a Ligue 1 away trip to Brest on Friday, February 20 or 21, 2026 (depending on scheduling), where he will look to implement his ideas immediately and steady the ship in what promises to be a high-pressure role at one of France’s biggest clubs.
The appointment blends nostalgia with pragmatism, as Marseille hope the return of a former hero can spark the revival needed in a turbulent campaign.