Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen has moved to clarify comments made by Nigeria head coach Eric Chelle regarding his absence from the national team’s upcoming international friendlies against Portugal and Poland.
The controversy emerged after Chelle, while explaining Osimhen’s unavailability for the matches, reportedly referenced the striker’s ongoing transfer situation at Turkish champions Galatasaray, sparking speculation about the forward’s future.
However, Osimhen has now addressed the issue, insisting that the coach’s remarks were misunderstood and taken out of context.
In a statement posted on his X account, the Galatasaray star revealed that he had spoken directly with Chelle to clear up the matter.
“I just got off the phone with Coach Eric Chelle regarding the comment about me in a recent interview,” Osimhen wrote.
“Unfortunately, his words have been taken out of context and blown out of proportion. He has great love for Galatasaray and follows most of our games and never intended to create any controversy.”
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The 27-year-old striker emphasized that there is no misunderstanding between him and the Super Eagles coach, expressing appreciation for the conversation and reaffirming his commitment to representing Nigeria.
“I appreciate the conversation and the opportunity to always represent my country, and I look forward to continuing working with him,” he added.
Osimhen also praised Chelle’s leadership and urged fans and the media to ignore reports suggesting any tension surrounding the coach’s comments.
“He’s a great coach whom I respect a lot, and I kindly ask everyone to disregard the speculation regarding this matter,” Osimhen stated.
The clarification is expected to put an end to growing speculation surrounding the striker’s future and his relationship with the national team coach as Nigeria prepares for its upcoming friendly matches.