Victor Osimhen Withdraws from Nigeria's Squad for Qualifiers

Ahead of the September 2026 international break, multiple high-profile withdrawals have occurred due to injuries and fitness issues. The England National Team, managed by Thomas Tuchel, has seen five players pull out, including Chelsea midfielder Cole Palmer, who withdrew as a precaution for load management, and Arsenal's Declan Rice, who is resting due to a long-term hamstring issue.

Manchester United's Marcus Rashford is managing an ongoing hip problem, while teammate Kobbie Mainoo has an unspecified injury. Newcastle United's Tino Livramento also withdrew after sustaining an injury during training.

Everton's James Garner and Nottingham Forest's Morgan Gibbs-White have been called up as replacements. Italy's Bryan Cristante from Roma has withdrawn due to an unspecified physical problem, with Como's Samuele Ricci taking his place.

Brazil's João Pedro has also withdrawn due to injury concerns. Nigeria's star striker Victor Osimhen has been ruled out of the upcoming qualifiers due to a right adductor muscle strain and has been replaced by Coventry City forward Taiwo Awoniyi.