Exclusive: "It's Not True" - NFF Denies Reports Of Bruno Labbadia's Return As Super Eagles Coach

Exclusive: "It's Not True" - NFF Denies Reports Of Bruno Labbadia's Return As Super Eagles Coach 

By Niyi Busari

The President, Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) Ibrahim Gusau and General Secretary, Dr. Sanusi Mohammed have distance the federation from the rumours of re-appointment of Bruno Labbadia as Super Eagles Coach, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

On Wednesday, 18th September, 2024, Bruno Labbadia, announced himself as Super Eagles Coach following his social media post hinting at Nigeria as the “new chapter” in his managerial journey. 

On August 27, the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) announced Labbadia as the Eagles’ new coach.

The federation said an agreement had been reached with the German, adding that he would take over the team immediately.

A few days later, the 58-year-old tactician pulled out of the deal which according to the NFF was due to stringent tax law in Germany.

However, on his Instagram page on Wednesday, Labbadia posted a picture of himself with the caption “new chapter” alongside the flag of Nigeria.

The post has sparked many rumours about the German’s impeding re-announcement as the Eagles’ next head coach.

To confirm the authenticity of the reports, www.bsnsports.com.ng reached out to the chieftains of the federation. "It's not true, NFF President responded in a WhatsApp chat.

Also reacting, the Secretary General, while responding to whether the rumors was true or not, wrote on WhatsApp, "I am hearing this for the first time because there has never been anything like that."

As there should not be vacuum after Bruno Labbadia drama, the NFF Technical Director, Austin Eguavoen was named the Eagles’ interim coach in August. He led the team to the first set of games in the 2025 African Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers.

Nigeria defeated the Benin Republic 3-0 in his first game in charge and afterward played out a frustrating goalless draw against Rwanda in Matchday 1 and 2 of the 2025 AFCON qualifier.