Nigerian football icon Sunday Oliseh has warned that Victor Osimhen’s aspirations of joining an elite European club could be compromised if the Super Eagles fail to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The former national team captain made these remarks while analyzing Osimhen’s recent permanent transfer to Galatasaray, following unsuccessful moves to Premier League giants Arsenal, Chelsea, and Manchester United this summer.
“Victor’s immediate focus must be ensuring Nigeria’s World Cup qualification,” Oliseh stated in a social media commentary. “A strong tournament performance would make top clubs overlook current concerns and reignite interest in him.”
The 26-year-old striker’s move to Turkey came as surprise after his stellar 2023/24 season with Napoli, where he scored 25 goals across all competitions. Oliseh emphasized that Nigeria’s current fourth-place standing in Group C of the qualifiers – behind South Africa, Rwanda, and Benin – presents a critical challenge for both player and country.
“Osimhen must double his leadership efforts with the national team,” the 1996 Olympic gold medalist advised. “World Cup visibility remains the ultimate showcase for players seeking top-club opportunities.”
Football analysts suggest Osimhen’s €120 million release clause at Napoli may have deterred potential suitors, with Galatasaray securing his services for a reported €65 million. However, Oliseh maintains that impressive World Cup performances could still facilitate the striker’s desired move to England or Spain’s elite clubs.
Nigeria’s next World Cup qualifiers in September present Osimhen with an immediate opportunity to boost both his country’s qualification hopes and his own transfer prospects. The Super Eagles will need maximum points from their upcoming matches to improve their qualification chances.
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