Super Eagles star Victor Osimhen finally breaks silence after Chelsea-Al Ahli transfer saga

Victor Osimhen at Napoli || Imago

Super Eagles star Victor Osimhen finally breaks silence after Chelsea-Al Ahli transfer saga

Izuchukwu Akawor • Izuchukwu Akawor • 16:05 - 02.09.2024

Nigeria's Victor Osimhen is set to link up with his Super Eagles teammates after a long transfer saga that failed with Chelsea and Al Ahli.

Nigeria's Victor Osimhen is set to link up with his Super Eagles teammates after a long transfer saga that failed with Chelsea and Al Ahli.

The Napoli icon has spoken for the first time after a dramatic summer that has now led to a breakdown in relation with Serie A side SSC Napoli.

Osimhen, 25, took to his Instagram account to respond to one of his international teammates, Taiwo Awoniyi, ahead of their link-up with the Super Eagles for AFCON 2025 qualifiers.

Awoniyi had hailed his teammate and compatriot after Napoli and Conte sidelined him after he failed to get his desired move away from Naples this season.

Victor Osimhen and Taiwo Awoniyi celebrate against Sao Tome. Image Credit - Osimhen/Instagram
Victor Osimhen and Taiwo Awoniyi celebrate against Sao Tome. Image Credit - Osimhen/Instagram

“Symbol of hope and respect,” the Nottingham Forest striker posted on his Instagram story, with Osimhen not wasting time acknowledging him with a reply. “Awo, see you soon my brother,” the Napoli man stated.

It was the first time the striker had spoken following his failure to secure a move away from Napoli and subsequent banishment from the team for the rest of the season.

Osimhen and Awoniyi on Instagram.
Osimhen and Awoniyi on Instagram.

Meanwhile, the post on social media follows a report from Pulse Sports Nigeria stating Awoniyi’s unwavering support for his fellow countryman after a long summer.

In his support, the 27-year-old Forest man stated that his national teammate is a fantastic striker who deserves the best opportunities.

Osimhen wanted out of Napoli this summer. (IMAGO / Independent Photo Agency)
Osimhen wanted out of Napoli this summer. (IMAGO / Independent Photo Agency)

“He's a fantastic striker and a great teammate,” Awoniyi was quoted to have said. “I hope everything works out for him,” he added.

In a related development, the forward is expected to lead the Super Eagles as Nigeria looks to kick start the road to AFCON 2025 on a good note.

Awoniyi has been in fine form for Nottingham Forest in the Premier League and earned the starting line-up role along with Osimhen. Image Credit - Taiwo Awoniyi/Instagram
Awoniyi and Osimhen will link up with the Super Eagles. Image Credit - Taiwo Awoniyi/Instagram

Osimhen headlines a star-studded team set to take on neighbours Benin Republic in Uyo before jetting out to face a tricky tie against Rwanda days later.

While the striker is yet to taste any competitive action so far this season, he is expected to lead the team under the guidance of interim boss Austin Eguaveon and his NPFL assistants, Fidelis Ilechukwu and Daniel Ogunmodede.