By Milcah Tanimu
Italian Serie A side Napoli has provided an update on Victor Osimhen’s injury status that will be concerning for Nigeria’s national team coach, Finidi George, and Super Eagles fans. Ahead of their crucial penultimate game of the season against Fiorentina at the Franchi Stadium on Friday evening, Napoli announced that Osimhen is undergoing personalized training on the pitch due to a muscle injury.
This development suggests that Osimhen, the reigning African Footballer of the Year, is likely to miss the matchday 37 clash. This game is vital for Napoli as it will determine their qualification for European competition in the 2024-2025 season.
Osimhen’s injury comes at a critical time as Nigeria prepares for the 2026 World Cup qualifying matches against South Africa’s Bafana Bafana and Benin’s Cheetahs. The injury crisis extends beyond Osimhen, with key players Samuel Chukwueze, Moses Simon, Tyronne Ebuehi, Zaidu Sanusi, and Leon Balogun also facing fitness issues. Additionally, there is no positive update on Bruno Onyemaechi, the Boavista fullback, who did not participate in full training on Wednesday.
Finidi George, the newly appointed head coach of the Super Eagles, is navigating these challenges just weeks into his tenure. The absence of these crucial players could significantly impact the team’s performance in the upcoming qualifiers.
In what could potentially be his final season with Napoli, Osimhen has been impressive, scoring 17 goals in 31 matches. His absence would not only affect Napoli’s prospects but also the Super Eagles’ campaign in the World Cup qualifiers.