Italian football legend Fabio Cannavaro has disclosed that he turned down an offer to manage the Nigeria National team, the Super Eagles.
The 2006 Ballon d’Or winner confirmed in an interview with La Gazzetta dello Sport that he was approached by the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) but declined the offer, citing his desire to focus on European clubs for now.
Cannavaro, a World Cup winner with Italy in 2006, has had managerial stints with Italian sides Benevento and Udinese, as well as a spell in charge of Saudi Arabian club Al Nassr.
Meanwhile, the NFF had announced plans to appoint an expatriate manager following the Super Eagles’ poor performance in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.
After talks with former Bayer Leverkusen boss Bruno Labbadia broke down, the federation was forced to look elsewhere.
However, Cannavaro confirmed that he was approached by the NFF, but he’s not ready to move outside of Europe just yet.
In a recent interview with La Gazzetta dello Sport, the former Juventus and Real Madrid defender said: “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’s decision to reject the Nigerian offer has raised eyebrows, with many wondering what the future holds for the Italian legend in the managerial world.
Will he find success in Europe, or will he eventually consider venturing outside of the continent if nothing comes before December? Only time will tell.
In the meantime, Augustine Eguavoen will take charge of the Super Eagles for the upcoming 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Benin Republic and Rwanda.
Who is Fabio Cannavaro?
Cannavaro is a 50-year-old Italian professional football coach and former player. The former Juventus star is regarded as one of the greatest defenders of all time.
Fabio Cannavaro’s legendary career
Italian football icon Fabio Cannavaro has left an indelible mark on the sport. With a career spanning over two decades, Cannavaro has achieved unparalleled success as a player and has transitioned into a promising coaching career.
Cannavaro’s playing career was marked by numerous accolades, including two Coppa Italia titles, the 1999 Supercoppa Italiana, and the 1999 UEFA Cup with Parma. He also won consecutive La Liga titles with Real Madrid in 2007 and 2008.
His crowning achievement came in 2006 when he led Italy to World Cup victory, earning the nickname “Il Muro di Berlino” for his exceptional defensive performances.
Cannavaro’s coaching career
After retiring from international football in 2010, Fabio Cannavaro ventured into coaching, leading a successful career that has seen him manage teams across the globe.
From the Middle East to China, and even his native Italy, Cannavaro has taken on various coaching roles, including stints with Al-Ahli, Guangzhou Evergrande, Al-Nassr, Tianjin Quanjian, the China national team, and Benevento.
Cannavaro’s coaching journey has provided him with invaluable experience, exposure to different football cultures, and chances to refine his managerial abilities.
His recent successes include leading Udinese clear of the relegation zone in the 2023-2024 season.
His individual honour
Cannavaro’s individual honors include the 2006 FIFA World Player of the Year, the Ballon d’Or, and the Silver Ball.
Cannavaro made 136 appearances for Italy between 1997 and 2010, scoring 2 goals, making him the second-most capped Italian player of all time, behind only Gianluigi Buffon.
He has also made the second-most appearances for Italy as captain, behind only Buffon, wearing the armband on 79 occasions.
Cannavaro’s remarkable legacy, unwavering dedication, exceptional leadership skills, and undeniable passion for the sport have solidified his status as one of the all-time great defenders in football history.
Considering his impressive credentials, one can’t help but wonder if he would have been the ideal choice for the Super Eagles had he accepted the offer from the NFF. Do you agree with this?
