The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) are in turmoil following reports that former Bayer Leverkusen coach Bruno Labbadia has withdrawn from negotiations to become the new head coach of the Super Eagles. Just days after his appointment was publicly announced on August 27, Labbadia has reportedly walked away from the deal, leaving Nigeria’s national team in a precarious position.
The NFF had unveiled Labbadia as the next man to lead the Super Eagles, touting his experience and tactical acumen as key assets ahead of the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers. However, it appears that the announcement was premature, as crucial contract details remained unresolved, leading to a breakdown in negotiations.
Stringent regulations of German tax authorities have conspired to abort the agreement between the Nigeria Football Federation and Labbadia for the latter to mount the saddle as Head Coach of Nigeria’s Super Eagles.
“I told him clearly that there was no way the NFF will agree to offset the concomitant tax percentage on his salary that will be demanded by German tax authorities. It is not possible for us to shoulder the responsibility of shelling out another money, between 32% to 40% of his salary, after paying the agreed monthly wage.
“The NFF and Mr. Labbadia reached an agreement in principle before we made the announcement that he would become the Head Coach of the Super Eagles. The tax details were never part of our discussions, and he had personally agreed to all terms before the tax issue came up.” President of NFF, Ibrahim Musa Gusau, said on Friday evening.
Fourth stint for AFCON 1994 winner
This setback comes at a critical juncture for the Super Eagles, who are scheduled to face Benin Republic and Rwanda in crucial AFCON qualifiers in just seven days. The uncertainty surrounding the coaching situation has thrown Nigeria’s preparations into disarray, raising serious concerns about the team’s readiness for these important fixtures.
In the wake of this development, former Nigeria international Augustine Eguavoen will step in as interim head coach. Usually, when the head coach of the main national team is out, the Technical Director takes over. Eguavoen, who currently serves as the team’s Technical Director, has previously taken charge of the Super Eagles on three occasions. His last stint ended in disappointment when Nigeria was eliminated in the round of 16 at the 2021 AFCON and failed to qualify for the 2022 FIFA World Cup.
