In a recent uproar, Napoli striker Victor Osimhen has drawn significant attention after publicly criticizing Finidi George, who allegedly resigned as head coach of the Super Eagles. The tension arose from comments attributed to Finidi regarding Osimhen's absence from the latest World Cup qualifiers due to injury.
Visibly upset, Osimhen took to Instagram live on Saturday to address the issue, stating that he had lost respect for Finidi. He explained the circumstances of his withdrawal from the national team, insisting that both he and his doctor had provided adequate information to Finidi.
Fan reactions on social media have been mixed. Jason (@zieecity) condemned Osimhen's approach, saying, "Let him get out, who's he? As a professional footballer you don't release a live video swearing and saying nonsense. No player is bigger than the team."
Kinq Kudos also disapproved of Osimhen's manner, suggesting that he should have addressed the issue through a podcast or interview instead. "I don't like Finidi's coaching style but Osimhen should not have handled it like this," he remarked.
On the other hand, Ore Eva defended Osimhen, highlighting his prior conduct and suggesting dissatisfaction with Finidi's coaching. "For years that Osimhen has been on the team, he's never spoken against any coach. Finidi must have really been terrible," Eva commented.
Others, like Iyke (@drackfel) and Uchenna (@RichDakvng), accused Osimhen of disrespect towards Finidi, drawing comparisons to similar incidents involving other players. "Osimhen feels he's richer and bigger than Finidi so he has no right to disrespect him," Iyke stated, while Uchenna pointed out perceived hypocrisy in player criticism.
Conversely, Uche Mark emphasized the generational and cultural divide in player-coach relationships. "This is why Finidi did not succeed. Disrespect, just look at how he's talking to someone old enough to be his dad," Mark asserted.
The controversy has sparked a broader debate among football enthusiasts, reflecting wider discussions on player-coach dynamics and professionalism in sports.
