By Tolúlopé Olátúnjí
Nigerian football fans have reacted strongly to Super Eagles forward Victor Osimhen’s response to allegations from former head coach Finidi George, questioning his commitment to the national team.
Osimhen, who missed Nigeria’s recent 2026 World Cup qualification matches against South Africa and Benin Republic due to injury, defended his dedication via Instagram Live on Saturday. He revealed that he had informed Finidi about his injury prior to the matches.
“Everybody knows I play my heart out whether it is in club side or national team. I won’t allow anybody to disrespect me. I won’t allow that nonsense. I won’t allow anyone to stain my name,” Osimhen said angrily.
Osimhen also mentioned his intention to share proof of his conversation with Finidi on Instagram to clear his name. Expressing his frustration, Osimhen stated: “I’ve lost respect for that man now. I spoke with him, requesting that I join the Super Eagles camp to be with my teammates. But he told me not to bother and that I should stay with my family – I have a video of the conversation.”
The CAF’s Player of the Year emphasized that he has often played through injuries for the Super Eagles and questioned why he was being blamed for the team’s recent poor performances.
Reacting to the situation, a user named Santorini on X said: “I don’t like Finidi’s style of coaching but Osimhen is not supposed to handle this issue like this. He could have done this on a podcast or interview if he truly wants to address it.”
Another user, Pius Ayinor, added: “Victor Osimhen would look at that video in a week’s time and wish he didn’t say all that he said. It’s never good to respond to issues when you’re still so angry. Worse is to do it in a live broadcast.”
Dr. Faruk commented on X (formerly Twitter): “Victor Osimhen will still come out to apologize for the video he made. The video is very unprofessional. To be honest, Nigerian players don’t respect local coaches at all.”
Osimhen’s rebuttal comes amid reports of Finidi George’s resignation as the Super Eagles coach, less than two months after his appointment.
