National Teams
Italian journalist criticizes Osimhen for prioritizing Afcon 2023 over Napoli struggle
By Wale Mustapha
Nigerian striker, Victor Osimhen has had his loyalty and love for his club side, Napoli put into questioning as he left the team to represent Nigeria at the African Cup of Nations, AFCON starting in Ivory Coast next weekend.
Respected football pundit in Italy, Mimmo Malfitano who gave the indication believed that the Super Eagles’ forward was only scoring goals to earn more bonuses that glory.
Osimhen has since report to the camp of Nigeria in Abu Dhabi, UAE ahead of the AFCON tournament and he’s expected to lead the line for Super Eagles in their friendly game against Guinea on Monday.
Malfitano who writes for the famous La Gazzetta dello Sports claimed Osimhen could have delayed his departure for national team engagement to help the Partonepei who are still battling with consistency against Juventus.
“Osimhen? People like him don’t give a damn about the shirt. He is highlighting it several times: he goes on the pitch and scores goals because he trains in view of the Africa Cup of Nations and because he earns bonuses on the contract.
“But he continually shows that he doesn’t care about staying in Naples or contributing to the cause. In a moment of such a profound crisis for the team, his duty would have been to stay together with his teammates, go onto the pitch in Turin and try to turn things around and then leave”.
Osimhen has been heavily linked with a departure from Napoli at the end of the season Despite signing a contract extension.
Chelsea are reported to be in pole position for his services.