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Sunday Oliseh: ‘I Wish I Played With Osimhen — He’s Exceptional, He Should Be at the World Cup!

Picture Credit: ATHSLT

Former Super Eagles captain and ex-head coach Sunday Oliseh has praised Victor Osimhen in glowing terms, revealing that he often imagines what it would have been like to play alongside the explosive forward.

Oliseh, known in his day for his vision and midfield dominance, said the Napoli star possesses a rare blend of speed, power and pressing ability that would have perfectly complemented his own style.

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“I would have relished playing with Osimhen,” Oliseh admitted while analysing Nigeria’s recent performances.

The former Juventus and Borussia Dortmund midfielder went on to explain that Osimhen’s work rate often gives the impression he is “running around alone” — not because he is disorganised, but because the rest of the team is not in sync with him. According to Oliseh, the Super Eagles have struggled to match Osimhen’s intensity, pressing cues and movement, leaving him isolated during matches.

He described the Galatasaray forward — who has remained one of Africa’s most feared attackers — as “exceptional”, calling him a complete modern striker capable of troubling any defence in world football.

In a more emotional assessment, Oliseh lamented Osimhen’s absence from the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup, insisting he is exactly the kind of player whose presence elevates a team on the global stage.
“He normally should be at the World Cup,” Oliseh said, referencing Nigeria’s painful failure to qualify for the tournament.

Oliseh’s comments echo the sentiments of many Nigerian fans who have long believed that Osimhen’s quality deserves the grandest platform football can offer. With his relentless drive, sharp instincts and explosive energy, the striker remains a symbol of the talent Nigeria will be missing in 2026.

For Oliseh, the takeaway is simple: Osimhen is a once-in-a-generation forward — and Nigeria’s inability to match his level has cost the team dearly.