Nigeria international, Victor Osimhen, remains doubtful when Napoli take on Atalanta on matchday 13 of the Italian Serie A, PUNCH Sports Extra reports.
The Nigerian, who returned to Italy November 8 having spent almost two weeks in Nigeria to attend to personal matters, has been out of action since October 13 after picking up a hamstring injury he suffered while on duty for Nigeria during an international friendly against Saudi Arabia in Portugal.
His last game for Napoli was on October 8 when he scored in their 3-1 win over Fiorentina.
Osimhen has missed five games for Napoli and it was initially thought the striker would be available for Saturday’s game against fellow Nigerian Ademola Lookman but according to an Italian publication, tuttonapoli, the 24-year-old may not be in action as new manager Walter Mazzarri begins his reign following the sacking of Rudi Garcia after a poor start to the season.
The Nigeria forward is close to full recovery and was back in Napoli training on Tuesday, although he trained separately from the rest of the squad.
“Ready to return to the field against Atalanta after the international break, Walter Mazzarri is aiming for the return of Victor Osimhen, who trained separately yesterday (Tuesday). However, the Nigerian is unlikely to be there against the Nerazzurri given that a return to the Champions League against Real Madrid is more likely.
“Napoli will therefore rely on Raspadori or Simeone against the Goddess.”
While his return for this weekend’s clash remains in doubt, the Super Eagles striker will most likely be fit to return to action when Napoli travel to face Real Madrid at the Santiago Bernabeu on Wednesday in a UEFA Champions League clash.
Napoli have seven points from four games in the Champions League and are second behind Real Madrid, who boast 12 points in Group C.
The reigning Serie A champions must win one of their last two games to secure qualification to the knockout rounds.
