Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle reveals ambition to manage Real Madrid and sign Victor Osimhen, following AFCON bronze success
Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has publicly declared his dream of managing Spanish giants Real Madrid, while naming Nigeria’s Victor Osimhen as his first potential signing.
The 48-year-old Franco-Malian coach, appointed by the Nigeria Football Federation in January 2025, previously managed two club sides in France and Algeria and led two African national teams.
Under his guidance, the Super Eagles secured a bronze medal at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.
Chelle’s ambition comes after a challenging World Cup qualification campaign. Despite recording six wins and two draws in CAF Group C, Nigeria finished second behind South Africa, narrowly missing automatic qualification.
In the playoffs, hopes were dashed after a 4-3 loss on penalties to DR Congo.
Speaking to RMC, Chelle said, “My biggest dream is to become Real Madrid’s first-ever African coach.” He added that Galatasaray striker Victor Osimhen would be his top target should he secure the Bernabéu job.
The announcement has sparked mixed reactions among Nigerian fans. Some praised his vision and charisma, while others criticized the timing, pointing out his AFCON and World Cup setbacks.
Real Madrid is currently second in the 2025/26 La Liga standings with 57 points, following Xabi Alonso’s dismissal.
The club is in search of a new coach after Zinedine Zidane stepped down for the second time, failing to secure a trophy in the last season.
Chelle’s dream reflects the growing ambition of African coaches to compete at the highest levels of club football.
