Why I rejected offer to manage Super Eagles — Former Ballon d'Or winner opens up

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Former Ballon d'Or winner Fabio Cannavaro has explained his decision to reject the chance to manage the Super Eagles of Nigeria.

Former Ballon d'Or winner (2006) and Italy legend, Fabio Cannavaro, has revealed that he turned down an offer to manage the Super Eagles of Nigeria.

The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) had been searching for an expatriate coach to take the reins after a disappointing run in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.

Former Bayer Leverkusen boss Bruno Labbadia was fingered for the role but after a breakdown in talks, the NFF are back on the market.

Cannavaro reveals why he turned down Super Eagles job

In an interview with La Gazzetta dello Sport, Cannavaro confirmed that he was approached by the NFF, but he's not ready to venture outside of Europe just yet.

"I had offers from Nigeria [national team] and Iranian clubs, but I want to wait for Serie A and European clubs until December. After that, I may start travelling again."

Cannavaro, a former World Cup winner with Italy, and legendary centre-back for Parma, Real Madrid, and Juventus, is yet to solidify his name on the managerial stage.

He has had spells with Italian sides Benevento, and Udinese as well as a stint in charge of Saudi side Al Nassr.

Meanwhile, Augustine Eguavoen will take the helm for Nigeria's upcoming 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Benin Republic and Rwanda.

It's a missed opportunity for the Super Eagles to tap into Cannavaro's expertise, but the former Ballon d'Or winner is keeping his sights set on a prestigious European gig.


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