Osimhen recovers from Covid-19, to return to Italy

Nigeria international Victor Osimhen is expected to return to Italy after testing negative for Covid-19.

The 23-year-old Napoli striker was among players named in Nigeria’s squad ahead of the Africa Cup of Nations set to kick off in Cameroon on Sunday.

However, on reaching Nigeria, the player tested positive for Covid-19 and was asked to isolate, forcing interim coach Austin Eguavoen to replace him with winger Henry Onyekuru, who turns out for Greek Super League club Olympiacos.

Osimhen’s club Napoli have now confirmed the player will return to Naples in the next few hours to begin training in readiness for the next Serie A matches.

“Victor tested negative for Covid-19: he will return to Italy in the next few hours,” the club confirmed.

Osimhen hasn’t played for Napoli since November 21, 2021, when he picked up an injury during the club’s 3-2 defeat against Inter Milan.