Former Super Eagles striker Anthony Ujah has shared his thoughts on the public spat between Victor Osimhen and ex-Nigeria coach Finidi George.
Osimhen, on loan at Galatasaray from Napoli, took to Instagram to express his frustration after Finidi questioned his commitment to the national team.
Ujah, who earned seven caps for Nigeria and played in the 2013 FIFA Confederations Cup, believes Osimhen’s lack of respect for Finidi sparked the controversy.
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“One thing in football is that if players don’t respect the coach, it becomes difficult. Unfortunately for Finidi, that’s what happened,” Ujah said in an interview.
The 33-year-old striker, currently playing for Botev Plovdiv, suggested that the situation would have been handled differently under Augustine Eguavoen’s leadership.
“Whatever happened between him and Osimhen wouldn’t have happened with Eguavoen because they all respect him.”
The feud began when Osimhen was declared unfit for Nigeria’s 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Benin Republic and South Africa. Finidi’s comments about not begging players to represent Nigeria were perceived as a question about Osimhen’s commitment, prompting the Galatasaray striker’s online outburst.
Finidi has since resigned as Super Eagles coach and revealed that Osimhen never apologized for his actions.
However, Osimhen returned to the Nigerian squad during the September international break, scoring in a 3-0 win over Benin Republic.
Ujah’s comments highlight the importance of respect and communication in football.
While Finidi and Osimhen’s disagreement has been put to rest, the incident serves as a reminder of the challenges coaches face in managing player relationships.
Nigeria looks to the future and Eguavoen’s potential return to the helm could bring stability and respect to the team. Meanwhile, Osimhen will aim to continue his impressive form, both for Galatasaray and the Super Eagles.