Victor Osimhen has almost recovered from his face injury but now has a different fitness issue ahead of AFCON.
Nigeria hope to have Napoli star Victor Osimhen in their ranks for the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations. However, a string of unfortunate events has made the players’ presence in the tournament doubtful.
Osimhen suffered a horrible face injury during Napoli’s 3-2 defeat against Inter in November. The player went under the knife and is currently close to full recovery. However, his presence in the AFCON now faces a new problem.
On Thursday, Napoli announced the Nigerian star has tested positive for COVID-19.
The club’s official statement reads: “Napoli has announced that Victor Osimhen has tested positive for Covid-19 but is asymptomatic. Dr. Tartaro was due to perform a check-up on the player tomorrow.
“Consequently, the local authorities have ordered that Osimhen self-isolate and the check-up will be rescheduled after he has tested negative and his period of isolation ends.”
Osimhen travelled to Nigeria earlier this week after Napoli allowed him to continue his rehabilitation at home. The striker will have to self-isolate for ten days, with Nigeria’s first AFCON game being 12 days away.
However, the self-isolation period is not Osimhen’s only concern ahead of the tournament. Napoli are against sending him to the AFCON, going as far as to threaten legal action against the Super Eagles.
Osimhen was planning to meet the Napoli doctors for a check-up on Friday. However, the new delay would give the club more reasons to avoid releasing him ahead of the competition.
Be sure not to miss out on the latest news about Africa Cup of Nations
Download our brand new App and follow your favorite players, clubs, and much more
