Osimhen rebuts Finidi’s allegations of non-commitment to Super Eagles
He asserted that he had always given his best for both his club and the national team and had communicated his injury status to Finidi prior to the matches.
Osimhen rebuts Finidi’s allegations of non-commitment to Super Eagles
In a fiery response, Victor Osimhen has refuted allegations from former Super Eagles head coach George Finidi questioning his dedication to the national team.
The accusations arose after Nigeria’s underwhelming performance in the recent World Cup qualifiers, with one draw and a loss, leading Finidi to imply that Osimhen’s commitment was lacking.
Osimhen, who missed the games against South Africa and Benin Republic due to injury, took to Instagram Live to defend his reputation.
He asserted that he had always given his best for both his club and the national team and had communicated his injury status to Finidi prior to the matches.
“Everyone knows I play my heart out whether it is in clubside or national team. I won’t allow anybody to disrespect me or stain my name,” Osimhen declared.
He promised to share evidence of his conversation with Finidi on Instagram to clarify the situation.
Expressing his disappointment, Osimhen noted, “I’ve lost respect for that man now. I spoke with him, requesting to join the Super Eagles camp to be with my teammates. But he told me not to bother and to stay with my family – I have a video of the conversation.”
Osimhen questioned why the team’s poor performance was being blamed on his absence, emphasizing his consistent commitment to the Super Eagles.
Finidi’s Departure
Coinciding with Osimhen’s rebuttal, Finidi confirmed his resignation as Super Eagles coach, less than two months after his appointment. “Yes, it is true. I have resigned,” Finidi told Channels Television.
READ ALSO: Finidi George resigns as Super Eagles coach
Appointed as an interim coach in April 2024, Finidi faced criticism following the team’s disappointing results, which jeopardized Nigeria’s World Cup qualification hopes. Under his tenure, the Super Eagles recorded a loss to Benin Republic and a draw with South Africa, leaving them fifth in Group C.
In response to the team’s poor showing, the Minister of Sport Development, John Enoh, summoned the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) for explanations. The NFF has since announced plans to hire a foreign technical adviser but has not commented on Finidi’s future.
Nigeria’s next competitive match will be in the 2025 AFCON qualification later this year.