…’I think Osimhen would’ve been very successful there’ Benni McCarthy
Manchester United opted against signing Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen largely because of the Africa Cup of Nations schedule, according former FC Porto and Bafana Bafana legend to Benni McCarthy.
Osimhen was one of Europe’s most sought-after forwards after scoring 26 Serie A goals during the 2022/23 season to help Napoli win their first Italian league title in 33 years.
His explosive pace, relentless pressing and clinical finishing made him a prime target for several elite clubs, including United.
McCarthy, who worked under Erik ten Hag at Old Trafford between 2022 and 2024, revealed that Osimhen was strongly considered during recruitment discussions and was viewed as an ideal fit for the Premier League side.
“If you spend £100 million on a player, you don’t want to lose him for AFCON,” McCarthy told BBC World Service’s Newsday.
The AFCON, typically staged in January and February, often clashes with the European domestic calendar – a factor that reportedly raised concerns within the club’s hierarchy.
“I think he would have been very successful there. But it (AFCON) was a big stumbling block.”
United were wary of committing a major transfer fee only to be without their leading striker for several crucial mid-season fixtures. McCarthy acknowledged that such absences could have significant consequences in a demanding league campaign.
“Losing him for so many important matches, the team suffers not having the main striker there.”
As a result, the club redirected their focus elsewhere in the transfer market.
“So the decision was made. Literally a big part was because of the AFCON and Victor Osimhen’s name got scratched off – not a player of interest because of that.”
United instead signed Danish striker Rasmus Højlund in August 2023. Osimhen later left Napoli and completed a move to Turkish champions Galatasaray.
McCarthy admitted the outcome was personally disappointing, especially given his pride in representing South Africa during his playing career.
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However, his comments underline the difficult balance European clubs face when investing heavily in African internationals whose continental commitments can disrupt domestic plans.
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