Eric Chelle aims to become first African coach to manage Real Madrid.

Eric Chelle, head coach of the Super Eagles of Nigeria, has revealed his long-term ambition to become the first African to manage Spanish giants Real Madrid.

The Malian-born tactician shared his vision on RMC Sport’s After Afrique podcast, which was posted on 𝕏 on Monday.

“My dream is to become the first African coach to manage Real Madrid,” Chelle said, describing it as the pinnacle of his professional aspirations as he continues to build his reputation on the global stage.

CBI News reports that Chelle’s profile has risen considerably following Nigeria’s strong showing at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco, where the Super Eagles finished third, winning all but one of their matches.

During the interview, Chelle revisited key moments from the AFCON campaign, including squad management issues and reported tensions involving players Ademola Lookman and Victor Osimhen.

He also addressed the widely publicised “water bottle” incident from the 2023 AFCON, when he was in charge of Mali.

The episode earned him the nickname “Waterman” after he collapsed near the touchline during a dramatic quarter-final loss to the Ivory Coast.

Clarifying the incident, Chelle revealed it was due to a serious medical condition: “I was feeling faint. During the preparation for the AFCON, I suffered from atrial fibrillation. My heart was beating at 200 beats per minute all the time. I was being monitored and taking medication, but I had dizziness and fainting spells.

"I spent the entire AFCON like that. After the match, I needed to catch my breath and was about to faint. The physiotherapist next to me knew I was fainting and put water on my head to keep me awake.”

Since undergoing heart surgery after the tournament, Chelle reassured supporters that his health has improved: “It’s going very well.”