Obafemi Martins urges Super Eagles to build attacking depth amid Osimhen reliance concerns
Former Nigeria international Obafemi Martins insists the Super Eagles must develop stronger attacking competition to reduce over-reliance on Victor Osimhen, after the team failed to win any of five 2026 World Cup qualifiers when the Galatasaray striker was absent. During that span, Nigeria drew with Lesotho, Zimbabwe and South Africa twice, plus lost to Benin, before eventually losing playoff hopes to DR Congo on penalties.
Martins clarifies his call isn't about diminishing Osimhen's value but ensuring quality alternatives exist to push him—citing his own era competing with Yakubu Aiyegbeni, Osaze Odemwingie and Julius Aghahowa where healthy competition maintained squad standards. He defended Osimhen's passionate personality against "bad attitude" claims, stating his enthusiasm is a blessing for the national team.
The 27-year-old striker currently has 35 international goals (two shy of Rashidi Yekini's record) and continues impressive club form with Galatasaray, scoring five goals and providing two assists in three league appearances this season. Former Man United striker Louis Saha also claims Osimhen remains keen on a Premier League move to Old Trafford.
With Osimhen's availability never guaranteed due to injury or transfer pursuits, will the Super Eagles prioritize developing attacking depth in upcoming AFCON qualifiers to avoid repeating recent qualifier struggles when their talisman is unavailable?