Napoli and Super Eagles forward Victor Osimhen has publicly expressed his disapproval towards Super Eagles coach Finidi George over recent injury claims. Reports circulating in Nigerian media suggested that Osimhen faked an injury to avoid participating in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers against South Africa and Benin Republic.
Responding to these allegations, a visibly upset Osimhen addressed the issue during an Instagram live session. He detailed his efforts to keep the Super Eagles management informed about his condition. “I knew things like this were going to happen. I am not dumb,” Osimhen stated. “While the doctor was talking to me, I immediately called Finidi; he was on the phone. I asked one of my guys to make a video, which would be posted on my story after this live session.”
Osimhen, who reportedly played through injury during the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, reiterated his commitment to both his club and country. “I play my heart out anytime I am on the pitch, be it for club or country. I don’t care whatever anyone says or does. I let everything go, but I won’t allow that disrespect to put a stain on my name,” he emphasized.
Addressing his relationship with Coach Finidi, Osimhen recounted a recent conversation where he requested to join the team camp. According to Osimhen, Finidi advised him to spend time with his family instead. “The respect I have for that man, I have lost it now. I called him and told him to allow me to come to camp and stay with the boys, and I spoke with some of my teammates as well. But he told me no, that I need to be with my family and all that, and I said no problem,” Osimhen explained.
The forward also expressed his frustration at being blamed for the team’s recent poor performances. “I know how many injuries I’ve played with for Nigeria and I played my heart out but after two bad games, everybody is attacking me,” said the 25-year-old.
Recent reports suggest that the injury claims were based on fake news disseminated by a section of the local media, further fueling the controversy.
