Super Eagles and Galatasaray striker, Victor Osimhen, has insisted he is not planning to leave the Turkish champions.
Chelle confirmed that Osimhen and Ademola Lookman will not be available for Nigeria’s upcoming friendly matches against Poland and Portugal.
He had cited Osimhen’s uncertain club situation for the Galatasaray forward’s absence, but after that sparked controversy, Osimhen was forced to release a clarifying statement.
Chelle made the original comments after the Super Eagles defeated Jamaica 3-0 to win the 2026 Unity Cup at the Valley Stadium in London, their fourth title in the competition’s history.
The coach had said:
“We will miss two players because Victor Osimhen, he had maybe to change a club, so I prefer that he stays, because if you play and you are not at hundred percent, this is not good.“
And (Ademola) Lookman is very tired, and Atletico has asked us to let him, so we will travel with 18 players.”
This was quickly followed by a post from Osimhen himself on Instagram where he stated that he had a conversation with the coach.
“Unfortunately, his words have been taken out of context and blown out of proportion,” Osimhen wrote.
“He has great respect for Galatasaray, follows most of our games, and never intended to create any controversy.
“I appreciate the conversation, the opportunity to always represent my country, and I look forward to continuing to work with him.
“He is a great coach whom I respect a lot, and I kindly ask everyone to disregard the speculation surrounding this matter.”
