Following Victor Osimhen’s outburst on social media, reactions from fans have been pouring in, with many criticizing the Napoli striker for his comments against Finidi George.
Finidi, who is said to have also resigned as the head coach of the Super Eagles on Saturday (although the NFF is yet to confirm), was quoted saying he can’t beg Osimhen to play for the national team after the player withdrew from their last two 2026 World Cup qualifiers due to injury.
The striker was reportedly ruled out by a four-week injury and was replaced by Enugu Rangers defender Kenneth Igboke.
But following the Super Eagles’ poor performances against South Africa and Benin Republic, the narrative around Osimhen’s absence changed as an online medium (not The PUNCH) reported that Finidi used Osimhen’s absence to highlight the players’ bad attitude towards the national team during a meeting with the Nigeria Football Federation chiefs and the Sports Minister, John Enoh, in Abuja on Wednesday.
Osimhen, infuriated by the comments, said in a live Instagram video on Saturday that he had lost respect for Finidi. He also opened up on the circumstances that led to his withdrawal from the Super Eagles’ last two World Cup qualifiers, adding that Finidi was adequately briefed by him and his doctor.
Jason, using the handle @zieecity, dismissed Osimhen’s actions, stating, “Let him get out, who’s he? As a professional footballer you don’t release a live video swearing and saying nonsense. No player is bigger than the team.”
Kinq Kudos expressed his disapproval of Osimhen’s approach, saying, “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.”
Ore Eva defended Osimhen, stating, “For years that Osimhen has been on the team, he’s never spoken against any coach. Finidi must have really been terrible.”
Iyke, with the username @drackfel, accused Osimhen of disrespect, commenting, “Osimhen feels he’s richer and bigger than Finidi so he has no right to be in charge of him. It wouldn’t happen if the coach was a white man. He wouldn’t make such comments publicly if one of his managers at Napoli did the same thing. Shame.”
Uchenna, with the username @RichDakvng, called out Osimhen’s disrespect, saying, “Anyone that doesn’t see disrespect in this speech is a big hypocrite! When Sancho called out his manager, they said Sancho is disrespectful.”
Uche Mark emphasized that players like Finidi caused Osimhen’s failure, “This is why Finidi did not succeed. Disrespect, just look at how he’s talking to someone old enough to be his dad. They’re calling you Osimhen, your head is swelling. Have you played up to half of what Finidi played? You’re my Edo brother but I don’t support you on this.”
