Éric Chelle is making headlines in football after expressing a bold ambition that’s hard to ignore: to one day coach Real Madrid. This strong statement has sparked debates and reactions over the past few hours.
The head coach of Nigeria’s Super Eagles recently shared his most audacious dream during an interview.
“I want to be the first African coach of Real Madrid,” he stated candidly. This phrase quickly made its rounds in the media and on social networks.
However, this isn’t an official announcement or a signal from the Madrid club. It’s a personal goal that Chelle fully embraces. At 48, the Franco-Malian coach sees this ambition as a source of motivation for the next chapter of his career.
Appointed head coach of Nigeria in January 2025, Éric Chelle has built a solid experience both in clubs and with national teams, particularly with Mali. Under his leadership, the Super Eagles have shown notable progress, clinching a third-place finish at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.
Beyond his current results, Chelle aims to leave a lasting mark on the history of African football. “Daring to dream big” is, in his view, essential to push boundaries and change the perception of African coaches on the global stage.
For now, the coach remains fully focused on his mission with Nigeria, preparing for upcoming international challenges, including World Cup qualifiers and continental competitions.
Despite the excitement generated by his words, no official contact or discussions have been reported between Real Madrid and Éric Chelle. While some applaud his inspiring ambition, others remind us that a dream, no matter how grand, doesn’t guarantee a short-term appointment.
Aware of the journey ahead, Éric Chelle continues to work diligently to enhance his experience and build a solid track record. His dream of Real Madrid remains, for now, a long-term goal — a symbol of his determination to reach the heights of his profession.
