Super Eagles Coach Éric Sékou-Chelle Sets Sights on Real Madrid After AFCON 2025 Bronze Success

Super Eagles head coach Éric Sékou-Chelle has revealed a bold vision for his coaching career, aiming to reach the pinnacle of world football following Nigeria's successful campaign at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). After taking charge of the national team in January 2025, Chelle guided the squad to a bronze medal finish, but he has now set his sights on a historic milestone: becoming the first African manager of Real Madrid. This ambition, which he describes as his ultimate dream, reflects a desire to prove that African tactical expertise belongs on the grandest stages of the UEFA Champions League.

The journey to the AFCON podium was marked by significant emotional milestones, most notably a heartfelt interaction between Chelle and star striker Victor Osimhen. Despite an injury that threatened his participation in the latter stages of the tournament, Osimhen remained a vital part of the coach's plans for the third-place playoff against Egypt. Chelle recounted how a conversation with the forward moved him to tears, describing it as one of the most touching moments of his career. This strong bond between the manager and his players translated into success on the pitch, as the Super Eagles defeated Egypt on penalties to secure third place. Osimhen’s excellence throughout the competition was further cemented by his inclusion in CAF’s Team of the Tournament.

Looking beyond the immediate success in Africa, Chelle’s aspirations serve as a powerful statement for the future of African football management. By voicing his desire to lead a club as iconic as Real Madrid, he is challenging long-standing barriers and setting a high standard for coaches across the continent. While he remains committed to the progress of the Super Eagles, his gaze toward the Santiago Bernabéu indicates a transformative era where African managers seek to define the game globally. His tenure with Nigeria serves as the foundational chapter of this ambitious journey, blending emotional leadership with a relentless drive for excellence.