Victor Osimhen is yet to arrive at the Super Eagles camp in Egypt ahead of Nigeria’s international friendly against Egypt.
As of the latest update, 25 players have reported to camp, including goalkeepers Francis Uzoho, Stanley Nwabali and Amas Obasogie.
Other players already in camp include Fisayo Dele Bashiru, Akinsanmiro Ebenezer, Semi Ajayi, Ademola Lookman, Bright Osayi Samuel and Igho Ogbu.
Tochukwu Nnadi, Zaidu Sanusi, Paul Onuachu, Frank Onyeka, Calvin Bassey, Alex Iwobi, Wilfred Ndidi, Bruno Onyemaechi, Cyril Dessers, Akor Adams, Chidera Ejuke, Raphael Onyedika, Ryan Alebiosu, Salim Fago, Chidozie Awaziem and Usman Mohammed.
Only three players are yet to arrive the team’s camp: Osimhen, Moses Simon and Samuel Chukwueze.
However, Osimhen’s absence has generated attention, especially considering that Galatasaray played their most recent match on Saturday, December 18.
With the fixture concluded, expectations were that the striker would arrive early, given his leadership role within the national team setup.
His late arrival comes despite Turkey being relatively close to Egypt, with a direct flight time estimated between two and two and a half hours.
This is not the first time the forward has arrived late to national team camp. A similar situation occurred during the World Cup qualifiers playoffs.
Due to his absence, Osimhen has missed Eric Chelle’s first two training sessions since the team opened camp in Egypt.
Also read: Egypt vs Nigeria: Eric Chelle’s Tactical Test Ahead of AFCON
This development may affect Chelle’s tactical plans, as the coaching staff could be forced to deploy an alternative striker for the friendly against Egypt – the match is expected to serve as a crucial test ahead of the Africa Cup of Nations.
