Napoli striker Victor Osimhen has publicly criticized coach Finidi George, stating that he has lost respect for him due to comments regarding Osimhen’s commitment to Nigeria’s national team, the Super Eagles.
Finidi, who reportedly resigned as head coach of the Super Eagles on Saturday, was quoted as saying he wouldn’t beg Osimhen to play for the national team.
This followed Osimhen’s withdrawal from the last two 2026 World Cup qualifiers due to an injury. The striker was replaced by Enugu Rangers defender Kenneth Igboke after being ruled out with a four-week injury.
However, after the Super Eagles’ disappointing performances against South Africa and Benin Republic, an online medium reported that Finidi had cited Osimhen’s absence as indicative of a poor attitude among players towards the national team.
This was allegedly discussed when Finidi and Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) officials met with Sports Minister John Enoh in Abuja on Wednesday.
Osimhen, evidently upset by these remarks, took to Instagram Live on Saturday to explain the circumstances of his withdrawal, insisting that Finidi was fully informed by both him and his doctor.
“I knew things like this 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 for an MRI scan. I called Finidi from there for him to listen to the doctor too. I asked him to allow me to come to the camp to be with the boys, and I spoke to some of my teammates, but he said I should be with my family.”
Osimhen emphasized his commitment to both his club and national team, stating, “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 screenshots 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.”
In Finidi’s tenure, the Super Eagles drew 1-1 with South Africa in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, and then suffered a 2-1 defeat against Benin Republic in Abidjan, leaving Nigeria with just three points from four games in Group C of the qualifiers.
Finidi’s resignation from the national team reportedly came two days after the NFF announced plans to hire a foreign technical adviser.
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