In a stunning reversal, renowned German coach Bruno Labbadia has turned down the opportunity to lead Nigeria’s Super Eagles, just days before crucial Africa Cup of Nations qualifying matches. The unexpected decision has left the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) scrambling to find a replacement.
Labbadia’s appointment was announced with great fanfare, with the NFF hailing him as the ideal candidate to succeed Finidi George.
However, behind-the-scenes negotiations ultimately broke down over unresolved organizational details.
Sources close to the talks revealed that Labbadia was drawn to the role’s immense potential but was unable to reconcile the NFF’s expectations with his own requirements.
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Despite the initial excitement, the deal was never formally sealed, leaving the Super Eagles without a leader.
As the AFCON qualifiers loom, the NFF faces a daunting task in finding a suitable replacement. With time running out, familiar faces like Austin Eguavoen and Samson Siasia have emerged as potential interim solutions. The search for a new coach has become a pressing priority, as the Super Eagles prepare to face Benin and Rwanda in September.