“Next chapter” – Former Stuttgart coach teases Nigeria Super Eagles job after initial rejection

Former VfB Stuttgart manager Bruno Labbadia has set the Super Eagles fanbase abuzz with a cryptic social media post hinting at his potential role as Nigeria’s new head coach, Soccernet.ng reports.

Following the resignation of Finidi George, who stepped down after just two matches into the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign, Labbadia was announced as his successor by the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF).

However, the appointment has been clouded by contractual complications.

Shortly after the NFF’s announcement, reports emerged suggesting that Labbadia had rejected the position.

According to the NFF, the stumbling block was a dispute over tax obligations. German tax laws require the payment of a substantial tax on his salary, an expense that the NFF was not prepared to cover.

The NFF President, Ibrahim Musa Gusau, explained the situation, stating,

“The NFF and Mr. Labbadia reached an agreement in principle before we made the announcement. The tax details were never part of our discussions, and he had personally agreed to all terms before the tax issue arose.

“We were trying to be flexible, but he was adamant that the NFF had to pay the full tax amount. We simply cannot do that.”

In a twist, Labbadia on Wednesday took to Instagram with the caption “New chapter,” alongside a Nigerian flag emoji, leaving fans and pundits speculating about whether he is set to take up the Super Eagles role despite the earlier setbacks.

His post has reignited hope among fans, though the NFF has yet to officially confirm his appointment.

If Labbadia’s appointment is confirmed, he will replace NFF Technical Director Augustine Eguavoen, who was in charge during the recent Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.