Nigeria Players Abroad
Victor Osimhen absent from Napoli’s third preseason friendly

By Monsurah Olatunji
Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen was notably absent from Napoli’s third preseason match against KF Egnatia, adding fuel to the ongoing transfer rumors surrounding his future.
Antonio Conte, clearly focusing on the players he plans to rely on for the upcoming season, opted for a 3-4-2-1 formation against the Albanian side.
The lineup featured Giovanni Di Lorenzo, Natan, and Amir Rrahmani in the back three, with Walid Cheddira spearheading the attack.
Despite being a key player for Napoli, Osimhen’s absence from preseason fixtures has raised speculation. The striker, who has a €130 million release clause following his contract extension last season, has been linked with a move to PSG.
Conte’s decision to exclude him from the lineup and the ongoing communication with Romelu Lukaku suggest that the coach may be planning for a future without the Super Eagles star.
Osimhen, the reigning African Player of the Year, has been a pivotal figure for Napoli.
However, his continued absence and the transfer rumors hint at possible changes ahead for both the player and the club. If Osimhen does not secure a move away from Napoli this summer, it remains to be seen how Conte will integrate him back into the squad.