After rejecting Tunisia and Angola, Eric Chelle reveals team he’d pick over Super Eagles

Nigeria head coach Eric Chelle has lifted the lid on the one job he would gladly accept even while committing his future to the Super Eagles; the Real Madrid hot seat, Afrik-Foot reports.

The Malian tactician, who has grown into one of Africa’s most admired coaches in recent months, confirmed that his long-term vision stretches beyond international football and into the elite world of European club management.

Chelle has been in high demand since guiding Nigeria to the semifinal of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, capping it with a bronze medal finish with the Super Eagles at AFCON 2025 in Morocco. That run, coupled with his calm authority and tactical clarity, has made him a popular target across the continent.

Tunisia, Angola and Gabon have all reportedly explored bringing him in, but Chelle has so far resisted those overtures, prioritising stability with Nigeria as he continues to shape a competitive Super Eagles side.

Yet despite his loyalty, the 48-year-old has made it clear there is one opportunity that would instantly change everything.

“My dream is to become the first African coach to manage Real Madrid,” Chelle said in an interview with RMC Sport.

Eric Chelle’s rising reputation

Chelle has enjoyed a meteoric rise in his coaching career over the last two years.

The former Lens ace guided Mali to the quarterfinals of the 2023 AFCON. He then steered Nigeria to third place at AFCON 2025 despite stepping into the role midway through World Cup qualification, a turbulent period that tested squad harmony and fitness.

Nigeria failed to qualify for the 2026 World Cup but the NFF and NSC are working to extend Chelle’s contract beyond its current due date.