Bruno Labbadia, who was recently named as the Super Eagles’ head coach, has unexpectedly declined the role.
He turned down the offer just days before crucial Africa Cup of Nations qualifying matches against Benin and Rwanda.
This comes despite the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) having announced his appointment earlier this week, replacing Finidi George, who resigned in May.
The German publication Kicker revealed that although financial agreements were reached, unresolved organizational issues led Labbadia to withdraw from the position.
The negotiations between Labbadia and the NFF began last weekend, showing initial promise, but a formal commitment was never made.
With Labbadia stepping down, the NFF is now tasked with finding a new coach before the qualifiers in September.
Speculation has arisen that former coaches Austin Eguavoen or Samson Siasia, who recently completed a five-year ban, might be considered for temporary roles.
In preparation for the qualifiers, the NFF has called up 23 players, including Napoli striker Victor Osimhen, Nottingham Forest forward Taiwo Awoniyi, and stand-in captain William Troost-Ekong, who are all returning after injury setbacks.
