The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has appointed German coach Bruno Labbadia as the new Head Coach of the Super Eagles, effective immediately. This announcement was made early on Tuesday via a tweet from the NFF’s X handle, identified as #thenff.
The NFF’s General Secretary, Dr. Mohammed Sanusi, confirmed that the Executive Committee approved the recommendation from the Technical and Development sub-committee to hire Labbadia. He succeeds Finidi George, who resigned after just four games in charge, making Labbadia the 37th head coach in the history of the Super Eagles.
Labbadia’s appointment comes at a crucial time as the Super Eagles prepare for their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying matches against Benin Republic on September 7 in Uyo and Rwanda on September 10 in Kigali.
However, the decision has sparked concerns within the Nigerian football community due to Labbadia’s controversial history and lack of experience with national teams. Known for his frequent dismissals, Labbadia has been labeled a “sack specialist,” with his most recent departure coming after a near relegation of VfB Stuttgart in 2023. The team subsequently qualified for the Champions League within a year of his replacement by Sebastian Hoeneß.
A review of Labbadia’s coaching career shows a mixed record: out of 487 games managed, he won 214 (43%), drew 103 (21%), and lost 170 (34%). This contrasts sharply with the record of José Peseiro, whom the NFF replaced despite his leading the country to a silver medal in the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations. Peseiro managed 651 games with 317 wins (48.69% win rate), significantly higher than Labbadia’s.
Labbadia’s lack of experience in national team management is a significant concern. Coaching a national team involves unique challenges such as managing a diverse group of players from various clubs and countries, adapting to different playing styles, and handling the pressures of international competitions. Critics question whether Labbadia, who has only coached club teams, possesses the necessary skills to successfully lead Nigeria on the global stage.
Throughout his career, Labbadia has managed several prominent German clubs, including Darmstadt 98 (2003-2006), Greuther Fürth (2007-2008), Bayer Leverkusen (2008-2009), Hamburger SV (2009-2010, 2015-2016), VfB Stuttgart (2010-2013, 2022-2023), VfL Wolfsburg (2018-2019), and Hertha BSC (2020-2021).
It remains to be seen what the outcome of Labbadia’s appointment will be and the effect it will have on the Nigerian National Football Team.
