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Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen's availability for Napoli this weekend has been cast into doubt after the Super Eagles star missed his flight back to Naples
In an unfortunate turn of events for Napoli and their fans, Victor Osimhen, the club's star striker, has not yet returned to Italy following his participation in the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
The 25-year-old's journey back to Napoli encountered a significant hiccup after he missed a connecting flight, putting his availability for the upcoming Serie A match against Genoa in jeopardy.
Osimhen’s Delayed Return Post-AFCON
Osimhen, who has been a pivotal figure for Napoli this season, was part of the Nigerian squad that reached the finals of the AFCON, eventually losing to Ivory Coast 2-1 on February 11th.
The striker's commitment to his national team saw him miss the Partenopei's last seven games, including Serie A and the Supercoppa Italiana fixtures.
According to reports from Il Mattino via TMW, Osimhen was scheduled to arrive in Napoli on Thursday morning. However, after flying from Nigeria to a European capital and then on to Campania, a delay caused him to miss his connecting flight. Although the missed flight was not directly Osimhen's fault, the mishap has disrupted plans for his return to club duty.
Osimhen Doubtful for Genoa Clash
With his expected arrival now delayed, Osimhen will miss crucial training sessions with the squad, casting serious doubts over his participation in Napoli's Saturday afternoon game against Genoa. This setback adds to the challenges faced by Napoli, who have been navigating various issues this season, including speculation around Osimhen's future with the club. The striker has hinted at a potential move in the summer transfer window, stating that he has already decided on his next step.
Osimhen's potential absence against Genoa would be a significant blow for Napoli, as they rely on his scoring prowess and presence up front. His contributions have been critical to the team's performance, and finding an adequate replacement in the event of his unavailability will be a challenge for the coaching staff.
Victor Osimhen's delayed return to Napoli serves as a reminder of the complexities and unforeseen circumstances that can impact a football club's preparations and player availability. As Napoli awaits Osimhen's arrival in the coming hours, the team and its supporters will be hoping for a positive update on his status for the weekend's Serie A action.
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