Manchester United decided against signing Nigeria striker Victor Osimhen because of concerns over his availability during the Africa Cup of Nations, according to former first-team coach Benni McCarthy.
Osimhen was among the forwards considered by United after scoring 26 Serie A goals in the 2022-23 season to help Napoli win their first league title in 33 years. His performances made him one of Europe’s most sought-after attackers.
McCarthy, who worked under Erik ten Hag at Manchester United, said the striker was highly regarded internally but the timing of Afcon proved decisive.
Osimhen won the MVP award for the UCL play off 2nd leg tie against Juventus in Turin. Photo Credit: Getty Images
“If you spend £100m on a player, you don’t want to lose him for Afcon,” McCarthy told the BBC.
“I think he would have been very successful there. But it [Afcon] was a big stumbling block.
“Losing him for so many important matches, the team suffers not having the main striker there.
McCarthy. Photo Credit: Getty Images
“So the decision was made. Literally [a] big part was because of the Afcon and Victor Osimhen’s name got scratched off not a player of interest because of that.”
Nigeria are regular contenders at the Africa Cup of Nations and often progress to the latter stages, raising the prospect of an extended mid-season absence.
United instead signed Denmark striker Rasmus Højlund from Atalanta in August 2023.
Osimhen. Photo Credit: Imago
READ MORE:red-card-red-faces-osimhen-writes-galatasarays-last-16-ticket-in-extra-time
Osimhen later left Napoli to join Galatasaray, initially on loan before completing a permanent move in 2025.
The 27-year-old continues to attract interest from several leading European clubs, including Barcelona, Juventus and Atlético Madrid.
CLICK HERE TO JOIN THE ATHLETIC NG WHATSAPP CHANNEL NOW!
He has seven goals and two assists in eight Champions League matches this season
