Victor Osimhen, Napoli and Super Eagles forward, has vehemently denied allegations from Super Eagles coach Finidi George that he faked an injury to miss the 2026 World Cup qualifiers against South Africa and Benin Republic.

Osimhen, who missed the tournament due to injury, responded to these claims during an Instagram live session, where he detailed his efforts to keep the Super Eagles boss informed about his condition.

“I knew things like this were going to happen. I am not dumb,” Osimhen stated. “While the doctor was talking to me, I immediately called Finidi; he was on the phone. I asked one of my guys to make a video, which would be posted on my story after this live session.”

The Nigerian star, who reportedly played the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations with an injury, reiterated his commitment to both his club and the national team.

“I play my heart out anytime I am on the pitch, be it for Club or Country. I don’t care whatever anyone says or does. I let everything go, but I won’t allow that disrespect to put a stain on my name.”

Osimhen also addressed his relationship with Finidi, sharing a recent interaction where he requested to join the team camp, only to be advised by Finidi to spend time with his family instead.

“The respect I have for that man, I have lost it now. I called him and told him to allow me to come to camp and stay with the boys, and I spoke with some of my teammates as well. But he told me no, that I need to be with my family and all that, and I said no problem.”

Expressing his frustration over being blamed for the team’s recent poor performances, Osimhen said, “I know how many injuries I’ve played with for Nigeria, and I played my heart out, but after two bad games, everybody is attacking me.”

Recent reports suggest that the claims Osimhen reacted to may have been based on a false report circulated by some local media outlets.

4o