Napoli striker Victor Osimhen has voiced his disappointment with coach Finidi George, stating that he no longer respects him because of remarks about his dedication to the national team. Finidi, who allegedly stepped down as the head coach of the Super Eagles, had said he would not persuade Osimhen to play for the team after the striker missed their last two 2026 World Cup qualifiers due to injury....CONTINUE READING
According to Ajapareporter.com, Osimhen was out for four weeks with an injury and was substituted by Enugu Rangers defender Kenneth Igboke. After the Super Eagles’ poor performances against South Africa and Benin Republic, reports indicated that Finidi blamed Osimhen’s absence for the team’s underwhelming display in a meeting with Nigeria Football Federation officials and Sports Minister John Enoh.
Upset by these statements, Osimhen addressed the issue on Instagram Live, detailing the circumstances of his withdrawal. He stressed that Finidi was fully aware of his injury through updates from both him and his doctor. Osimhen recalled calling Finidi from Germany, where he was undergoing treatment, to inform him about his condition. He also expressed his readiness to join the team camp to support his teammates, which Finidi rejected, advising him to stay with his family instead.
Osimhen emphasized that he always gives his best for both club and country and was hurt by the doubts about his commitment. To refute Finidi’s claims, Osimhen declared he would provide evidence of their conversations to clear his name. He concluded by stating that he had lost respect for Finidi because of this incident.
During Finidi’s time as the Super Eagles coach, the team managed a 1-1 draw with South Africa and a 2-1 loss to Benin Republic, leaving Nigeria with only three points from four games in the World Cup qualifiers. Finidi reportedly resigned two days after the Nigeria Football Federation announced plans to appoint a foreign technical adviser.
