German Coach Bruno Labbadia Appointed as Super Eagles Head Coach

The NFF General Secretary, Dr. Mohammed Sanusi, announced early Tuesday that Labbadia’s appointment was approved by the NFF Executive Committee following a recommendation from its Technical and Development Sub-Committee.

"The NFF Executive Committee has approved the recommendation of its Technical and Development Sub-Committee to appoint Mr. Bruno Labbadia as the Head Coach of the Super Eagles. The appointment is with immediate effect," Sanusi stated.

A Veteran with Bundesliga Pedigree

Born in Darmstadt, Germany, on February 8, 1966, Labbadia brings a wealth of experience to the Super Eagles, both as a former professional player and a seasoned coach.

During his playing career, Labbadia won two caps for Germany’s national team, Die Mannschaft, and played for top-tier clubs including Hamburger SV, FC Kaiserslautern, Bayern Munich, and Werder Bremen. Notably, he clinched the Bundesliga title with Bayern Munich in 1994.

Transitioning to coaching, Labbadia has managed several high-profile Bundesliga teams such as Hertha Berlin, VfB Stuttgart, VfL Wolfsburg, Bayer Leverkusen, and Hamburger SV. He holds a UEFA Pro License, underscoring his credentials at the highest levels of football management.

Following in the Footsteps of German Predecessors

Labbadia becomes the sixth German coach to lead the Super Eagles, following in the footsteps of notable predecessors like Berti Vogts, who managed the team from 2007 to 2008, and Gernot Rohr, who helmed the squad from 2016 to 2021. Rohr notably qualified Nigeria for the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia, while Manfred Höner guided the team to a runner-up finish at the 1988 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

Immediate Challenges Ahead

Labbadia's first task as the Super Eagles' head coach will be to prepare the team for the upcoming 2025 AFCON qualifiers. The Super Eagles are set to face Benin Republic on Saturday, September 7, in Uyo, followed by an away match against Rwanda on Tuesday, September 10, in Kigali. These matches are crucial as Nigeria seeks to secure its place in the continental tournament.

Beyond these immediate fixtures, Labbadia will oversee four additional qualifying matches scheduled for October and November, as Nigeria aims to maintain its status as one of Africa’s football powerhouses.

A New Chapter for the Super Eagles

The appointment of Labbadia marks a new chapter for the Super Eagles, who have been seeking to return to the pinnacle of African football. With his extensive experience in both playing and coaching at the highest levels, expectations are high that Labbadia will bring fresh tactical insights and a disciplined approach to the team.

As Nigerian football fans eagerly await the upcoming qualifiers, all eyes will be on Labbadia to see how he will adapt to the challenges of African football and guide the Super Eagles to success in the 2025 AFCON and beyond.