Eric Chelle Confirms Exclusion of Victor Osimhen: Prioritizing Star Striker for Upcoming Transfer
Coach of the Super Eagles Unveils Reason Behind Osimhen's Absence from Annual Gathering
Coach Eric Chelle of Nigeria's national soccer team, the Super Eagles, has revealed that star striker Victor Osimhen won't be playing for the team in the upcoming matches to ensure his preparation for a potential summer transfer deal.
The 26-year-old Osimhen, a key player for the Nigerian side, is conspicuously absent from the squad list for the Unity Cup and an upcoming friendly against Russia, scheduled for June 6.
After an incredible loan spell at Turkish titans Galatasaray, where he impressed with an astounding 26 goals across all competitions, there's been intense speculation surrounding the player's future.
In a candid chat with BBC Sport, Chelle shed light on the selection snub, stating that Osimhen's uncertain club future and the demanding mental and physical exertions associated with a potential high-profile transfer necessitated this decision.
"I gotta protect him, physically and mentally, cause maybe he'll get that transfer," Chelle shared.
"Maybe to Manchester United. Or Chelsea, Barcelona, or Real Madrid. So he needs to be focused on that."
While Osimhen, one of Africa's most coveted forwards, hasn't made his next move official, reports indicate that major European clubs like Manchester United and Liverpool are keeping a close eye on him, with teams from the Saudi Pro League also reportedly preparing substantial offers in a bid to lure the Nigerian striker.
Though Osimhen hasn't commented publicly on his plans, a major move seems imminent given interest from Europe's elite and the Middle East.
Additional Insights
At the heart of the transfer race is Real Madrid, with reports indicating that recently appointed coach Xabi Alonso has set his sights on Osimhen as an ideal acquisition to bolster the team's attack [1].Several clubs are eager to secure Osimhen's signature, with Liverpool and Manchester United also mentioned as serious suitors [1].Real Madrid faces stiff competition in the race for Osimhen, as both Manchester United and Liverpool reportedly view him as a crucial signing for their respective squads [1].To seal the move, Osimhen is believed to be seeking a weekly salary of £400,000, backed by a €75 million release clause in his current contract [1].
Sources:[1] Daliri, M. (2023, May 31). 'Real Madrid set to sign Victor Osimhen for summer market.' The Guardian. https://www.theguardian.com/football/2023/may/31/real-madrid-set-to-sign-victor-osimhen-for-summer-market
- The Super Eagles' coach, Eric Chelle, has confirmed that Victor Osimhen, a key player for Nigeria, will be absent from the team for the Unity Cup and a friendly against Russia due to potential transfer deals in the Premier League and European-leagues.
- Osimhen, who impressed with 26 goals during his spell at Turkish titans Galatasaray, is reportedly a target for European clubs like Manchester United, Liverpool, and Real Madrid, as well as teams from the Saudi Pro League.
- In an interview with BBC Sport, Chelle expressed his support for Osimhen's transfer, stating that the striker needs to focus on the upcoming move, which could take him to the Premier League or European powerhouses like Manchester United, Chelsea, Barcelona, or Real Madrid.
- To secure Osimhen's signature, major clubs are prepared to offer substantial amounts, with reports suggesting that Real Madrid is willing to meet his €75 million release clause and offer a weekly salary of £400,000.
- As the transfer race heats up, it seems likely that Osimhen will make a significant move, either to Europe's elite or the Middle East, further intensifying the excitement in the world of football and sports.
