The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has officially appointed Bruno Labbadia, the seasoned German football strategist, as the new Head Coach of the Super Eagles. Labbadia’s appointment, effective immediately, comes as Nigeria’s national team prepares for crucial 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers.
In a statement released at 5:32 am on Tuesday, NFF General Secretary, Dr. Mohammed Sanusi, confirmed that the federation’s Executive Committee had approved the recommendation of its Technical and Development Sub-Committee to hire Bruno Labbadia as Head Coach of Nigeria’s senior men’s national team. “The appointment is with immediate effect,” said Sanusi.
Labbadia’s Distinguished Career and German Legacy
Born in Darmstadt, Germany, on 8th February 1966, Bruno Labbadia brings a wealth of experience to the Super Eagles. With a playing career that included stints at top German clubs like Bayern Munich, Hamburger SV, and Werder Bremen, Labbadia also earned two caps for Germany’s national team, Die Mannschaft.
His managerial résumé is equally impressive, having coached Bundesliga giants such as Hertha Berlin, VfB Stuttgart, and Bayer Leverkusen, and he holds the UEFA Pro Licence.
Labbadia is the sixth German to take charge of the Super Eagles, following in the footsteps of figures like Karl-Heinz Marotzke and Gernot Rohr. Under Rohr’s guidance, the Super Eagles qualified for the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia, highlighting the successful history of German tacticians with the team.
Immediate Challenges and AFCON 2025 Qualifiers
Labbadia’s first task as Head Coach will be to prepare the Super Eagles for their upcoming 2025 AFCON qualifying matches. Nigeria is scheduled to face Benin Republic on Saturday, 7th September in Uyo, followed by a crucial fixture against Rwanda on Tuesday, 10th September in Kigali.
These matches will be pivotal as Nigeria aims to secure their place in the tournament, with four additional qualifiers set to take place in October and November.
With a rich history of leading clubs in top European leagues, Labbadia’s appointment signals the NFF’s intent to harness experienced international expertise as Nigeria seeks to reclaim its status as a footballing powerhouse on the African continent.
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