Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has opened up about his ambitious vision for the Nigerian national team, declaring his intent to conquer both the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) and the FIFA World Cup.
In a candid interview on the Histoires de Foot podcast, Chelle revealed that his aspirations extend far beyond the continent.
While the former Mali international acknowledged a past dream of becoming the first African coach to take the helm at Real Madrid, he made it clear that his focus is firmly on the present challenge with Nigeria.
“I have a structure around me to try to progress as a coach. It is true that not long ago, I said that my dream was to be the first African at Real Madrid,” Chelle stated. “But that is not my only dream. I want to win the Africa Cup of Nations with Nigeria.”
The Franco-Malian coach, who recently guided the team to a bronze medal at the 2025 AFCON in Morocco, didn’t stop there. He stressed that his ultimate ambition is to make history on the global stage.
“If we had gone through, I wanted to qualify for the World Cup with Nigeria, and I even wanted to win that World Cup,” he added. “I have lots of dreams. I am 48 years old but still young and someone who wants to realise his dreams.”
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