Former Super Eagles striker, Odion Ighalo, has slammed Nigerians online for for their criticisms surrounding the failed transfer of his compatriots, Victor James Osimhen.

Osimhen, 25, was entangled in a complex transfer saga that saw his move out of Napoli to Saudi Pro League side AL-Ahli and English Premier League side Chelsea unsuccessful.

The out-of-favour striker was expected to leave Napoli this summer but a deal could not be reached before the close of the transfer window.

He has since been removed from their serie A squad list for the 2024-2025 season after he failed to agree a move to either Chelsea or AL-Ahli in Saudi Arabia on dateline day.

On Thursday, fans and friends of the current African footballer of the year expressed differing opinions regarding his next career move amidst the transfer speculations.

Osimhen, a Nigerian and a professional footballer widely regarded as one of the best players in the world, known for his elite finishing, pace, strength and athleticism.

Reacting on Sunday via his X handle to the development, Ighalo who plays for AL-Wehda FC in Saudi Arabia, slammed the criticisms surrounding the issue.

According to him, Osimhen was in pain when they spoke.

Igalo wrote: “No human being is perfect and we have all made mistakes in life, but seeing comments about this young man from his own country make me really sad, without even knowing what happened.

“I spoke to him and I can feel the pain in his voice, the way he’s been treated, this young man plays with heart and pain for his country, Hmmm it’s well, he will definitely be back stronger, we learn everyday in life”.

-9News Nigeria.