The new coach of Napoli the Italian Serie A champions Francesco Calzona has defended his decision to sub off Victor Osimhen in his team’s 1-1 draw against Cagliari in the Italian Serie A.
Calzona was appointed as a replacement for the sacked Walter Mazzari on a deal till the end of the season, with a mandate to ensure that the team end the season on a high, despite not having any chance of retaining the title they won for the first time in 33 years last season.
His first assignment was in the UEFA Champions League round of 16 against Barcelona, and the team came from behind to draw 1-1 with Victor Osimhen leveling the scores after Robert Lewandoski gave the visitors the lead.
Against Cagliari , they took the league through Osimhen for his 8th goal of the season, but it wasn’t enough to give them all three points with the host drawing level in the 6th minute of time added on. Calzona’s decision to sub off Osimhen in the 85th minute was questioned after the game.
“Osimhen? He was tired, I don’t think it’s anything serious. He is ready to take Napoli on his shoulders. I didn’t talk much to him, because there’s no need, he’s a fantastic guy. Little by little he will regain his condition, he had problems with the Africa Cup of Nations, the players return devastated from that competition. The other evening I replaced him for the same reason, but the players always want to play”, he said.
Mohammed Mowiz Suleiman
