Napoli’s Sporting Director, Giovanni Manna, has publicly addressed the recent decision to exclude Super Eagles forward Victor Osimhen from the club’s first-team squad. This move follows a turbulent transfer period that saw Osimhen’s potential move to Chelsea fall through.
The 25-year-old Nigerian striker, who was a standout player for Napoli last season, had been linked with a transfer to Chelsea. However, the deal collapsed on transfer deadline day due to disagreements over salary expectations between the two clubs.
As a result, Osimhen remained with Napoli, but his absence from training and pre-season games raised concerns about his future with the team.
Osimhen’s exclusion from the senior squad comes in the wake of Napoli’s decision to sign Romelu Lukaku from Chelsea. Lukaku, a Belgian international, has taken over Osimhen’s former number 9 jersey, further highlighting the shift in the team’s dynamics.
In an interview with DAZN, Giovanni Manna provided insight into the club’s stance. He stated, “We’ve made significant investments; we brought in Lukaku and kept Raspadori and Simeone, which wasn’t guaranteed. Right now, we are sticking to our consistent approach that we’ve had from the start. Victor has expressed his desire not to play for Napoli, and we have made other choices.”
Manna’s comments reflect the club’s confidence in their current squad and their ability to move forward without Osimhen. He added, “The market is still open, there are many options, but I don’t think Victor will be going to Saudi Arabia in this transfer window.”
The Nigerian striker’s future with Napoli is now uncertain. Osimhen missed Napoli’s recent match against Parma, a clear sign of his exclusion from first-team activities. As it stands, it is unclear whether he will be reintegrated into the squad for the remainder of the season.
Osimhen’s absence could have significant implications for Napoli. Last season, he was instrumental in their Serie A title win, scoring 26 goals and providing numerous assists. His departure, whether through transfer or continued exclusion, will be a critical factor in the team’s performance this season.
Napoli’s decision to invest heavily in new players like Lukaku indicates their commitment to maintaining a competitive squad. Lukaku, who was previously at Chelsea, is expected to play a central role in the team’s attack. The club’s management believes that their investments will help them remain strong contenders in Serie A and other competitions.
The transfer window is often a period of significant change and uncertainty for football clubs. Players seeking new opportunities can sometimes cause disruptions within their current teams. In Osimhen’s case, his desire to move to a new club and the subsequent breakdown of negotiations with Chelsea have led to a strained relationship with Napoli.
Victor Osimhen’s journey in football has been remarkable. He rose to prominence with LOSC Lille in France before making a high-profile move to Napoli. His performances have earned him accolades, including the 2023 CAF Player of the Year award. However, the recent events highlight the volatility that can accompany a footballer’s career, particularly when transfer negotiations do not go as planned.
