Super Eagles striker, Odion Ighalo, has revealed that his teammate, Victor Osimhen, is in pain following his recent transfer controversy. Ighalo expressed sadness over the treatment meted out to Osimhen by Nigerian fans, urging them to take it easy on the young player.
Ighalo, who plays for Al-Wehda FC, took to his social media handle to express his concern for Osimhen, who was recently left out of Napoli’s squad and had his number 9 jersey given to Romelu Lukaku. “No human being is perfect and we have all made mistakes in life, but seeing comments about this young man from his own country people makes me really sad,” Ighalo wrote.
“Without even knowing what happened, I spoke to him and I can feel the pain in his voice, the way he’s been treated, this young man plays with heart and pain for his country, Hmmm it’s well, he will definitely be back stronger, we learn every day in life,” Ighalo added.
Recall that Osimhen’s transfer to Napoli had been surrounded by controversy, with many Nigerian fans expressing disappointment over his decision to join the Italian club. However, Ighalo believes that Osimhen deserves support and understanding, rather than criticism.
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“Players play to take care of their families and not for trophies,” Ighalo said, quoting Brown Ideye, a former Super Eagles player who had advised Osimhen to accept a offer from a Saudi Arabia club. “Players’ football cycle is short,” Ideye had added.
Meanwhile, Osimhen has made a major decision on his future transfer, according to reports. The Super Eagles forward has been linked with several clubs, including Chelsea and Al Ahli.