Former Lazio midfielder Ogenyi Onazi has criticised Manchester United for not signing Galatasaray attacker Victor Osimhen due to the Africa Cup of Nations, or AFCON, event.
Onazi’s comments were in response to allegations from former Manchester United first-team coach Benni McCarthy, who revealed that Osimhen was left off the club’s striker shortlist because of concerns over his availability for Nigeria during the AFCON competition.
However, Onazi has now dismissed these worries as a “flimsy excuse,” arguing that the Red Devils should have prioritised Osimhen’s potential value to the team.
“I don’t see that as a valid reason for [Man United] not signing Victor,” Onazi told Footy Africa.
“If they understand the value of Osimhen and what he can contribute to Manchester United, it should not be an excuse since there are other players going to the African Nations Cup for Manchester United and other clubs who are also very important, such as Mo Salah for Liverpool.
“I think that is just a flimsy excuse,” said the man.