Labbadia’s Appointment as Super Eagles Coach Stalled by German Tax Laws, Eguavoen Takes Over.
The appointment of Bruno Labbadia as the head coach of Nigeria’s Super Eagles has hit a significant roadblock due to complications arising from German tax laws. The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has announced that, as a result, Augustine Eguavoen, the federation’s Technical Director, will lead the team in the upcoming 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers against Benin Republic and Rwanda.
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This sudden change marks Eguavoen’s fourth stint as head coach of the Super Eagles, having previously held the position from 2005 to 2007, in 2010, and briefly in 2022. Eguavoen’s appointment underscores the NFF’s confidence in his experience and familiarity with the team, as the Super Eagles prepare for crucial matches on the road to AFCON 2025.
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The NFF disclosed that the financial burden associated with Labbadia’s tax obligations, potentially amounting to between 32% and 40% of his salary, was not accounted for in the initial contract discussions. NFF President Ibrahim Gusau explained that while efforts were made to negotiate a compromise, Labbadia remained firm in his demand that the federation cover the full tax amount, a condition the NFF found untenable.
“We were doing our best to be flexible in the discussions, but he was adamant that the NFF had to pay the full tax amount as well. We simply cannot do that,” Gusau stated, reflecting the federation’s stance on the matter.
With Eguavoen now at the helm, the Super Eagles are set to continue their preparations, with the focus squarely on securing their place in the upcoming AFCON tournament. The NFF and Nigerian football fans alike will be looking to Eguavoen to guide the team through these vital qualifiers and beyond.
