Why Victor Osimhen will not start preseason summer retreat with Napoli on July 14

Napoli’s preseason preparations are set to kick off on July 14 as the team gears up for the upcoming season, Soccernet.ng understands. 

The club will head to Dimaro-Folgarida to begin the first phase of their summer retreat.

However, there will be one notable absence when they convene. Victor Osimhen will not be reporting for duty on that day.

The reason behind his delayed arrival is quite simple: Napoli granted him an extended vacation.

Osimhen’s holidays started later than usual due to his involvement with the Nigerian national team in the qualifying match against Sierra Leone on June 18.

In that crucial game, Osimhen played a pivotal role, scoring two goals in a 3-2 victory that secured the Super Eagles’ qualification for the upcoming African Cup.

The continental competition is scheduled to take place between January and February 2024.

As a result, Osimhen is entitled to a few additional days off and will join the team in Dimaro after July 14.

During his break, the 24-year-old has been enjoying quality time with his friends and family in his hometown of Lagos.

This well-deserved rest follows an outstanding season for Osimhen, where he contributed 26 goals to help Napoli secure the Scudetto title for the first time in 33 years.

Additionally, he played a crucial role in Napoli’s UEFA Champions League campaign, scoring five goals to help the team reach the quarterfinals.

While Osimhen’s future at Napoli remains uncertain, with several top clubs, including Chelsea, Manchester United, PSG, and Tottenham Hotspur, expressing interest in signing him, his immediate focus is on returning to the pitch fully rejuvenated and ready to contribute to Napoli’s upcoming challenges.