Manchester United decided against signing Victor Osimhen because the striker would be unavailable during the Africa Cup of Nations, according to former first-team coach Benni McCarthy. Speaking to South African media, McCarthy claimed the club hierarchy held discussions about the Nigeria international before opting for other targets. The 25-year-old forward eventually joined Galatasaray on loan from Napoli after a permanent move failed to materialise during the summer transfer window.
United officials reportedly feared losing a primary goalscorer for up to five weeks during the mid-season tournament, per the Manchester Evening News. This logistical hurdle proved a significant factor in the club's recruitment strategy. McCarthy, who left his role at Old Trafford in June 2024, suggested the coaching staff admired Osimhen's profile but the board prioritised squad availability. The Premier League side instead signed Rasmus Hojlund for £72m from Atalanta in August 2023, according to The Guardian. Osimhen remains one of European football's most prolific scorers, having led Napoli to the Serie A title in 2023.
