Nigeria Coach Eric Chelle: "I Want to Win the World Cup

Super Eagles Head Coach Eric Chelle has a message for doubters: his dream isn't just to win in Africa with Nigeria, it's to take the country all the way to World Cup glory.

The 48-year-old Malian tactician addressed swirling rumors about his future in a recent podcast interview, firmly shutting down speculation that he was pursuing opportunities with European clubs like Olympique de Marseille. Despite reports of contract disputes and alleged interest from France, Chelle says his focus remains squarely on Nigeria.

"I want to win an Africa Cup of Nations with Nigeria," Chelle declared. "I even wanted to win that World Cup. I have lots of dreams. I'm 48 years old but still young and someone who wants to realize his dreams."

The context makes his commitment even more remarkable. Under Chelle's leadership, Nigeria transformed into the most exciting attacking team at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, dazzling fans with goals and swagger. But twice in two months, heartbreak struck in the cruelest way possible: penalty shootout defeats to Morocco and the Democratic Republic of Congo, both on Moroccan soil.

Those losses sparked rumors that Chelle might leave. Reports suggested he demanded a $130,000 contract renewal and was in talks with Marseille. But Chelle clarified that his sports agency simply shopped his name around, as agents do, and he had zero personal contact with the French club.

"I had no contact with the leaders of Olympique de Marseille," he explained. "My agency decided to probe certain clubs in Europe. At that moment, OM was looking for a coach, so my agency got in touch to propose me."

Why This Inspires

What makes Chelle's story compelling isn't just his ambition, it's his transparency. He could have leveraged European interest for a bigger payday or walked away after devastating losses. Instead, he's doubling down on Nigeria.

The Super Eagles have one year left on Chelle's contract, with an option to extend through 2027. That timeline perfectly aligns with the next AFCON cycle and World Cup qualification. Chelle sees the pathway clearly, and he's not interested in shortcuts.

Nigeria's attacking brilliance under Chelle has already restored belief among fans. The team went from inconsistent performers to tournament favorites in months. What remains is converting that promise into silverware, and Chelle believes the foundation is solid.

For a coach who could pursue comfortable club positions in Europe, choosing to chase World Cup glory with Nigeria speaks volumes about ambition over convenience.