Napoli striker and Super Eagles star Victor Osimhen has been officially removed from the Serie A champions’ first-team training ahead of the new season by new coach Antonio Conte.
According to a report by OwnGoalNigeria.com, Osimhen has been asked to return for pre-season training but will not join the senior squad. Instead, he has been banished to train with the youth team, as he is not part of Conte’s plans for the upcoming season.
Osimhen, 26, spent last season on loan at Turkish giants Galatasaray, where he made a huge impact by scoring 37 goals and providing 6 assists, helping them to win both the league and cup titles. Now back at Napoli, his future at the club remains uncertain.
Conte has reportedly informed Osimhen’s representatives that the striker will not take part in any tactical or technical training with the first team. He will only be allowed to maintain his fitness by training separately with the youth squad.
Napoli’s pre-season officially begins on July 14–15 with medical tests. Training will take place in Dimaro (Trentino Alto Adige) from July 17–27, followed by a short break, and then a second camp in Castel Di Sangro (Abruzzo) from July 30 to August 14.
The fallout appears to be linked to Osimhen’s desire to leave the club. Despite reported interest from other clubs, the only team that has met his €75 million release clause is Saudi Arabia’s Al Hilal, a move Osimhen is said to have rejected.
This is not the first time Osimhen has clashed with Napoli management. Last season, he was also sent home during training under previous coaches, raising questions about the long-term relationship between the Nigerian star and the Italian club.
