Manna Osimhen out for integrity of group

Victor Osimhen‘s injury has left Napoli with a major headache as they face the prospect of being without their star striker for the remainder of the Champions League group stages.

The Nigerian’s injury

Osimhen was stretchered off in the 42nd minute of Napoli‘s 4-2 win over Atalanta on Saturday, after falling awkwardly and hitting his head on the ground. The striker was immediately taken to the hospital where he underwent several tests, including an MRI scan, which revealed a ‘displaced fracture of the left cheekbone and orbital bone’.

The impact on Napoli

The injury to Osimhen is a significant blow to Napoli, who are currently top of Serie A and second in their Champions League group. The Nigerian has been instrumental for the Partenopei this season, scoring nine goals in 14 appearances across all competitions. His absence will undoubtedly be felt, particularly in the Champions League where Napoli face Liverpool and Paris Saint-Germain in their next two group matches.

The alternatives

With Osimhen out, Napoli will have to rely on their other forwards to fill the void. Dries Mertens, who scored a hat-trick against Atalanta, will likely lead the line, while Arkadiusz Milik and Fernando Llorente will provide backup. However, none of these players possess the same level of quality and consistency as Osimhen, who has been Napoli‘s top scorer in each of the last two seasons.

The Champions League

Napoli‘s Champions League campaign has been impressive so far, with two wins and a draw in their first three group matches. However, the loss of Osimhen could severely dent their hopes of progressing to the knockout stages. The Partenopei face Liverpool at the San Paolo on Tuesday, before traveling to Paris to face PSG in their final group match. Without Osimhen, Napoli‘s chances of advancing to the last 16 look slim.

The Serie A title race

Napoli‘s Serie A campaign has also been impressive, with the Partenopei currently top of the table. However, the loss of Osimhen could impact their title hopes, particularly with Inter Milan and Juventus breathing down their necks. Napoli face Sassuolo and Roma in their next two league matches, and will need to find a way to replace Osimhen’s goals if they are to maintain their lead at the top of the table.

Conclusion

Victor Osimhen‘s injury is a major blow to Napoli, both in the Champions League and Serie A. The Nigerian’s absence will undoubtedly be felt, and the Partenopei will need to find a way to replace his goals if they are to maintain their title hopes and advance in the Champions League. With Osimhen out, Napoli‘s season hangs in the balance.