The Nigeria Football Federation has come under scrutiny for its handling of the selection process for the Super Eagles head coach position, with Italian coach Roberto Landi raising serious concerns, Soccernet.ng reports.
Landi, who enjoyed a decent career as a goalkeeper before taking to coaching, applied for the vacant Super Eagles role but has been left frustrated by the NFF’s approach.
The former Liberia coach's remarks follow Bruno Labbadia's sudden withdrawal from the running for the Super Eagles job due to unresolved contractual issues.
Reflecting on the situation, Landi told SportsBoom.com via Complete Sports,
“If that's the case, it's crazy. No one wants to be treated that way or disrespected, and you see why one would walk out. I say it because no one wants to be treated in that way.”
Landi himself has faced similar frustrations, as he has yet to receive any communication from the NFF since submitting his application.
“I spoke with my agent, and he's assured that all is well while looking at some possible offers on the table. I wondered about the silence since my resume got turned in and no one from the federation has reached out,” he revealed.
The 68-year-old coach emphasised the importance of ensuring all contractual agreements are finalised before making any official announcements.
“All contractual agreements need to be covered before anything becomes official, and a big body like the NFF knows this,” the former Union SG boss noted.
Despite his concerns, Landi remains keen on the Super Eagles role, acknowledging its prestige.
“We're waiting, but everyone knows how big a job the Super Eagles role is. Yes, certainly the lure is still there,” he admitted.
Landi concluded by wishing interim coach Austin Eguavoen and the Super Eagles success in their upcoming AFCON 2025 qualifying matches against Benin Republic and Rwanda.
If you expect something better from NFF you will be disappointed
you will be disappointed if you rest your hope on the NFF
because it’s impossible for them to keep to their words, due to that the NFF is being run by politicians who are not sports oriented, Nigeria may not be able to get to the point of being a head in football ⚽
it’s impossible.
please tell them to build sports facilities in akwa ibom that is the only state that would be able to manage and maintain the NFF’s sports facilities
Akwa ibom has the best, FIFA standards and most sports facilities in Nigeria, ranging from numerous football standards stadiums, swimming stadiums, golf centers, roads for bike race, javalin etc.