The Nigeria Football Federation, NFF, has appointed former German international Bruno Labbadia as the new head coach of the Super Eagles. The announcement, made via social media on Tuesday morning, confirmed that Labbadia’s appointment is effective immediately, though contract details were not disclosed.
Labbadia is Nigeria’s third head coach in 2023 after a tumultuous period with the national team. The experienced Bundesliga tactician takes over the reins just 12 days before the start of Nigeria’s qualifying campaign for the 2025 AFCON. The Super Eagles entertain the Benin Republic in Uyo in their Group D opener and will be away to Rwanda three days later.
This is Labbadia’s first coaching role outside Germany, having managed top Bundesliga clubs including Bayer Leverkusen, Hamburg, VfL Wolfsburg, VfB Stuttgart, and Hertha Berlin. His vast experience at the highest level in Germany is expected to bring stability to the Super Eagles as they prepare for crucial AFCON qualifiers.
Labbadia replaces Finidi George, who was in the post briefly this year, leading the team in four matches. The NFF hopes that with Labbadia, Nigeria will win continental success as the team prepares for qualification into the 2025 AFCON.
