NFF denies engaging German coach Winfred Schafer for Super Eagles

By Oyediji Oluwaseun Babatunde

The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has refuted claims of engaging with German coach Winfried Schäfer for the senior men’s national team position.

Despite recent media reports suggesting otherwise, the NFF has clarified that no discussions have taken place with the 74-year-old German tactician.

An NFF official, who spoke on the condition of anonymity to BSNSports.com.ng, stated: “We are aware of the rumors, but we are not in contact with Schäfer. The federation is still in search of a suitable coach for the Super Eagles.”

Winfried Schäfer, born on January 10, 1950, is a well-regarded German football manager and former player with experience managing clubs such as Borussia Mönchengladbach, VfB Stuttgart, and Al Ain, as well as national teams including Cameroon. His most recent role was with Al Akor in 2021.

Following the resignation of Finidi George, the NFF continues its search for a new head coach for the Super Eagles. Although Bruno Labbadia was recently announced as a potential candidate, he could not assume the role due to contractual issues.

In the interim, Augustine Eguavoen, Head of the Technical Department, has stepped in to manage the team.

Under Eguavoen’s leadership, the Super Eagles secured a 3-0 victory over Benin Republic and played to a 0-0 draw with Rwanda in their first two 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) Qualifiers in Group D.