Real Madrid and Juventus legend reveals he rejected Nigeria Super Eagles coaching job

Italy legend Fabio Cannavaro has disclosed that he turned down an offer to become the head coach of Nigeria’s Super Eagles, Soccernet.ng reports.

The former Juventus and Real Madrid defender, widely regarded as one of the greatest defenders in football history, revealed he prefers to wait for offers from Italian and European clubs before considering any roles outside the continent.

Speaking to La Gazzetta dello Sport, the 2006 World Cup winner explained that since leaving his post at Udinese in May 2024, he has received multiple offers, including from the Nigerian national team and several Iranian clubs.

However, Cannavaro remains focused on potential opportunities within Europe.

“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 said.

The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has been actively searching for a new head coach following the departure of Portuguese manager José Peseiro.

The former Porto and Sporting Lisbon boss led Nigeria to the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) final in February before leaving at the expiration of his contract.

Former Super Eagles winger George Finidi briefly took over but resigned after a poor run of results.

Most recently, the NFF announced the appointment of German coach Bruno Labbadia in late August. However, Labbadia declined the position just three days after the announcement, as no formal contract had been signed.

With Augustine Eguavoen now managing the team on an interim basis for the AFCON qualifiers against Benin and Rwanda, the search for a permanent head coach continues.

Cannavaro, known as “Il Muro di Berlino” (The Berlin Wall) for his commanding presence on the pitch, had an illustrious playing career, winning two La Liga titles with Real Madrid and leading Italy to World Cup glory in 2006.

Though he has since pursued coaching roles across the Middle East, China, and Italy, including coaching Super Eagles goalkeeper Maduka Okoye at Udinese, the Italian insists his immediate future lies in Europe.