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Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen is a fitness worry for Napoli ahead of their crucial UEFA Champions League tie against Barcelona next week
As the UEFA Champions League Round of 16 approaches, Napoli faces mounting concerns over the fitness of their star forward, Victor Osimhen, ahead of their crucial first leg clash against Barcelona.
The Nigerian international's participation is in doubt after an exhausting Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) tournament, which saw him and the Super Eagles reach the final, only to be narrowly defeated 1-0 by Ivory Coast.
The Weight of the Tournament
According to reports from SkySport in Italy, as cited by Sport, Osimhen has returned from the tournament visibly struggling for fitness, having lost between 3 to 4 kilograms during the competition. The weight loss, indicative of the physical toll the tournament has taken on him, raises questions about his ability to recover in time for the high-stakes match against Barcelona.
Nigeria's journey to the AFCON final, followed by a government greeting and numerous activities upon their return, compounded with a grueling 16-hour flight, has left little time for recovery. Osimhen's condition is a significant concern for Napoli, as his absence could impact the team's offensive strategy against Barcelona, a team currently dealing with defensive vulnerabilities.
The Impact on Napoli's Champions League Aspirations
Osimhen's potential absence or lack of full fitness could significantly alter the dynamics of the Napoli-Barcelona encounter. As Napoli sweats over their star player's condition, the coming days will be crucial in determining his availability for what promises to be a compelling contest in the Champions League's knockout phase.
Should Osimhen be unable to start, Napoli manager Luciano Spalletti may turn to either Giovanni Simeone or Giacomo Raspadori to fill the void. Both players offer different qualities, but Osimhen overall quality and his relentless running is seen as a critical component in exploiting Barcelona's recent defensive disarray.
As Napoli and their fans await further updates on Osimhen's fitness, the importance of his role within the squad cannot be overstated. The Super Eagles star's ability to challenge Barcelona's defense could be key to securing a favorable outcome in the first leg and Napoli will hope for a swift and positive turnaround in Osimhen's recovery as they prepare to host the Catalan giants in Naples.
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