Benitez Laments Osimhen’s Absence from 2026 World Cup

Former Real Madrid and Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez has expressed disappointment over Victor Osimhen’s absence from the 2026 FIFA World Cup, insisting the tournament will be poorer without one of Africa’s most exciting attacking talents.

The Nigeria international will miss the competition after the Super Eagles failed to secure qualification for the tournament in North America, bringing an end to their World Cup hopes following a dramatic qualifying campaign.

Nigeria finished second in Group C with 17 points, just one behind South Africa, before progressing to the playoff stage. The Super Eagles defeated Gabon in the semi-finals but saw their qualification dreams shattered after a penalty shootout loss to DR Congo in the decisive playoff final.

Benitez Names Players He Will Miss at the Tournament

Speaking to La Gazzetta, Benitez identified Osimhen as one of several high-profile stars whose absence will be felt during the World Cup.

“Too easy: Kvaratskhelia, first and foremost,” Benitez said.

“And then Osimhen too, and not just because Napoli holds a special place in my heart. But I must also add Zieliński and Lewandowski, one of the greatest ever.”

The Spanish tactician believes Osimhen’s absence is particularly significant given the striker’s current form and status as one of Africa’s leading forwards.

The 27-year-old, who currently plays for Galatasaray, is widely regarded as one of the continent’s most prolific attackers. Despite his impressive international career with Nigeria, Osimhen has yet to feature at a FIFA World Cup, having also missed out when the Super Eagles failed to qualify for the 2022 tournament in Qatar.

France and Spain Among Tournament Favourites

Benitez also shared his thoughts on the leading contenders for the World Cup title, naming France and Spain as two of the strongest teams in the competition.

He pointed to France’s wealth of attacking options and Spain’s exciting new generation of talent, led by Lamine Yamal and Nico Williams, as key reasons why both nations are among the favourites.

The former Champions League-winning coach also highlighted England and Germany as serious contenders capable of going deep into the tournament.

Meanwhile, the World Cup has already delivered plenty of excitement in its opening round of fixtures, with co-hosts Mexico, Canada and the United States making encouraging starts to their campaigns.