Osimhen cannot take criticism — Super Eagles striker's former coach reveals his biggest flaw

Former Napoli coach Francesco Calzona praised Victor Osimhen's physical abilities but highlighted the striker's imperviousness to external input, in the form of criticism, as his major flaw. 

Calzona was the third of three coaches who oversaw Napoli's abysmal title defence during the 2023/24 season. 

He was Osimhen's trainer from when he was hired in February, three games before a crucial UCL match against Barcelona, until the end of the season in May. 

Calzona had first-hand information on Osimhen's dispositions and tendencies during that period and said he noticed a flaw in his character. 

The Italian coach had a recent interview with AS, in which he advised the Super Eagles ace to be more amenable to constructive criticism, as relayed by Calcio Napoli. 

"Victor is a fantastic player with extraordinary qualities, especially physically,” Garcia said. “He must understand that playing for big clubs also means that at times he's criticised for his performances. He must improve on this. 

“He must understand that criticism can be constructive and can help you improve where you may have some flaws. I think this could be his biggest flaw: accepting criticism when you're not at 100%, especially at a major club like Napoli. 

“Osimhen was incredibly loved by the people there, and the club also took care of him. But he must handle difficult moments better."

Calzona’s comments are certainly not strange, as Osimhen’s temper has spilt into public knowledge. His infamous rant in which he employed expletives in his address to his then-national team coach, Finidi George, remains divisive.