By Sport Analyst
Emmanuel Afonja
Napoli has officially recalled Super Eagles forward Victor Osimhen to report for pre-season training as the Italian club begins preparations for the 2025/2026 football season. The call-up comes amid swirling transfer rumours and uncertainty about the striker’s future at the club.
The Nigerian international is expected to join his teammates at Napoli’s Castel Volturno training complex this week as the Serie A giants look to rebuild following a disappointing 2024/2025 campaign that saw them finish outside the UEFA Champions League qualification spots.
Club Focused on Fresh Start
Under new management and with a renewed strategy, Napoli is keen to get a head start on fitness, tactical drills, and squad cohesion. Osimhen, who was the club’s top scorer last season despite injury setbacks, remains a central figure in Napoli’s attack — at least for now.
Reports from Italy suggest the club is eager to have a full-strength squad available for the start of their pre-season fixtures. Head coach Francesco Calzona, who is set to continue in his role, is believed to want Osimhen integrated early to assess his fitness levels and readiness, especially after a lengthy season and international duty.
Transfer Speculations Continue
While Osimhen’s recall signals his contractual commitment to the club, speculation continues over his potential move away from Naples. The 25-year-old has been linked with top clubs across Europe, including Chelsea, PSG, and Arsenal. Despite signing a contract extension last year with a hefty release clause reported to be around €130 million, interest in the powerful forward remains high.
Sources close to Napoli’s front office maintain that any decision on Osimhen’s future will depend on offers meeting the club’s valuation. However, his presence at pre-season suggests no immediate departure is on the cards — at least not before serious negotiations take place.
Osimhen’s Performance Still Valued
Victor Osimhen remains a prized asset for Napoli. With 15 goals and 4 assists in Serie A last season, his ability to lead the line, press defenders, and convert chances is unmatched within the current squad. His physicality, pace, and aerial prowess have made him one of the most sought-after strikers in world football.
Napoli fans will be keen to see whether Osimhen’s return signals a renewed commitment to the club or simply serves as a final chapter before a big-money move elsewhere. Either way, his return to training is a boost for the team’s morale and strategic planning.
What’s Next for Napoli and Osimhen?
With the club looking to rebuild and reclaim its place among Europe’s elite, much will depend on how they handle key players like Osimhen. The weeks ahead will be crucial — not just for fitness and tactics, but also for clarity regarding squad structure ahead of the new campaign.
For now, Napoli fans can look forward to seeing their star striker back in the famous sky-blue kit — at least for the start of pre-season.
