Napoli striker Victor Osimhen publicly criticized former Super Eagles coach Finidi George, expressing that he has lost respect for him due to comments regarding the Player’s commitment to the national team.
Finidi, who resigned as Nigeria’s head coach on Saturday, was reportedly quoted saying that he would not beg Osimhen to play for the national team after the player withdrew from the last two 2026 World Cup qualifiers due to injury.
Osimhen, sidelined by a four-week injury, was replaced by Enugu Rangers defender Kenneth Igboke.
In a live Instagram video on Saturday, Osimhen detailed the circumstances leading to his withdrawal from the qualifiers, stating that both he and his doctor had adequately briefed Finidi on the situation.
“I knew things like these would happen and that’s why I have the videos and screenshots of when I called Finidi while I was with the doctor in Germany,” Osimhen said.
“I got injured in our (Napoli’s) last game against Lecce and I went to the MRI scan. And I called Finidi there for him to listen to the doctor too.
“I called him (Finidi) and asked him to allow me to come to the camp to be with the boys and I spoke to some of my teammates too but he said I have to be with my family.
“I’m not addressing anything, everybody knows I play my heart out whenever I’m playing for the club or national team. I’ll share the screenshot and videos of my conversation with Finidi for the sake of those believing what Finidi said.
“I’ve lost respect for that man because before I disrespect anybody, I always respect them,” The player added.
