Ex Nigeria Star Advises NFF on How to ‘Deal With’ Super Eagles Star

• Victor Osimhen blasted Finidi George last weekend for allegedly questioning his commitment to the Nigerian national team
• The Napoli superstar missed the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against South Africa and Benin, Finidi’s first matches
• Former Nigeria international, Gbenga Okunowo, has warned the Nigeria Football Federation against banning the superstar

Victor Osimhen caused a storm last weekend when he blasted former Nigeria coach, Finidi George, on social media.

The Napoli striker was responding to comments the coach allegedly made about his commitment to the national team.

Former Super Eagles international, Gbenga Okunowo, has urged the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) to tread lightly.

Osimhen missed Nigeria’s2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against South Africa and the Benin Republic due to injury.

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Finidi, who has reportedly resigned from his role, allegedly questioned the star’s commitment to the team, which irked the African Footballer of the Year.

Last Saturday, June 15, an irate Osimhen went on Instagram Live to respond to Finidi.

“Everybody knows I play my heart out whether it is in clubside or national team. I won’t allow anybody to disrespect me… I don’t care if what Finidi said is true or false,” he said via Channels TV.

The NFF are yet to release a statement regarding the matter and Finidi’s status as coach after poor performances in the qualifiers.

Okunowo comments on Victor Osimhen’s issue

Okunowo has since urged the NFF to address the issue with caution, warning against severe punishments like a ban, per Brila FM.

“Our NFF should please handle this matter carefully. They should approach Osimhen with understanding and not in a confrontational way. They should also respect Finidi George’s role in this situation. Finidi is a mentor and needs to guide Osimhen because the boy is still growing and learning,” he said.

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The former Barcelona youngster also asked the NFF to go easy on the striker.

“I’ve heard some people suggesting a ban, but I don’t think that’s the right approach. The NFF should call Osimhen to order and impose a fine, not a ban. It’s essential to give him a reasonable fine and guide him back on track banning him would be counterproductive for the team.”

Fans anxiously await a way forward from the federation after the messy situation.

Anichebe reacts to Osmihen’s rant

Sports Brief previously reported on former Nigeria striker, Victor Anichebe, commenting on Osimhen’s rant.

The former Everton striker said the forward was wrong to lash out at Finidi publicly but also understands it.