Victor Osimhen Faces Uncertain Future As Napoli’s Conte Plans Training Exclusion.
SSC Napoli manager Antonio Conte is poised to exclude Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen from first-team training upon his return to the Italian club, following the conclusion of his successful loan spell at Galatasaray. The decision, reported on 3rd July 2025, marks a significant development in the ongoing saga surrounding the 26-year-old forward’s future with the Serie A champions.
Osimhen, who played a pivotal role in Napoli’s 2023 Serie A title triumph, spent the 2024-25 season on loan at Galatasaray, where he delivered an outstanding performance, scoring 37 goals and providing eight assists in 41 appearances. His contributions helped the Turkish giants secure a league and cup double, cementing his reputation as one of Europe’s top strikers. However, tensions with Napoli’s hierarchy last summer led to his temporary move, and his return to the Diego Armando Maradona Stadium has sparked fresh uncertainty.
According to reports, Osimhen is expected to report to Napoli’s Castel Volturno Sports Centre on 14th or 15th July for routine medical checks ahead of pre-season training. Despite this, Conte has reportedly informed the striker’s representatives that he will train separately from the first team, as he is not part of the club’s plans for the 2025-26 season. This decision follows a history of strained relations, with Conte having previously deemed Osimhen surplus to requirements after a fallout over a potential transfer to England.
While Napoli are open to a permanent sale, with a €75 million release clause in Osimhen’s contract (valid only for clubs outside Serie A), no firm offers have materialised. Galatasaray, keen to retain the striker, proposed a four-year deal worth €26 million per annum, but Osimhen has yet to commit. Interest from Premier League clubs, including Manchester United, Chelsea, and Liverpool, persists, with United reportedly leading the race. Additionally, Saudi Arabia’s Al-Hilal has tabled a lucrative €75 million offer, which Osimhen has so far rejected.
As Napoli prepare for their pre-season camp starting 17th July, Osimhen’s exclusion from first-team activities underscores the club’s intent to resolve his future swiftly. With his contract running until June 2026, and an option to extend to 2027, the coming weeks will be crucial in determining whether the Super Eagles star remains in Naples or embarks on a new chapter elsewhere.
