Recent reports suggesting that Napoli’s star striker Victor Osimhen has been banned from the Nigeria national team, the Super Eagles, have been categorically denied by the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF).
These rumors emerged after Osimhen’s alleged disrespectful comments about former head coach Finidi George.
The Controversy
Victor Osimhen was rumored to be excluded from the national team following a public criticism of Finidi George’s management. This speculation caused a stir among fans and media, particularly as Osimhen is a crucial player for the Super Eagles.
NFF’s Response
NFF General Secretary Dr. Mohammed Sanusi has officially refuted these claims, expressing his astonishment at the misinformation being circulated. “The NFF has neither instructed a process nor has a process been concluded to ban the player from the National Team,” Sanusi stated emphatically.
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He urged the media to focus on constructive resolutions and avoid unnecessary escalations, emphasizing the importance of unity and forward-thinking as Nigeria prepares for crucial World Cup qualifiers. “Our focus presently is to resolve all matters around the Super Eagles and be able to look ahead with confidence to the 2025 AFCON qualifiers and the remaining six matches of the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification series,” Sanusi added.
Impact of the Rumors
Osimhen’s rumored exclusion was seen as a significant blow to Nigeria’s football ambitions, given his pivotal role in the team’s offensive strategy. The 25-year-old striker had a mixed season in Serie A but remains a key figure for the Super Eagles.
Moving Forward
With Finidi George no longer at the helm and the NFF seeking a new foreign technical adviser, resolving the situation with Osimhen is a priority for Nigerian football authorities. His return to the national team setup is expected to boost their chances in the upcoming qualifiers for the 2026 World Cup in the USA, Canada, and Mexico.
