Osimhen scored on his return for Napoli, but Spalletti complained about his numerous offside calls.
The Super Eagles striker was a second-half substitute as Napoli defeated Ajax Amsterdam 4-2 at the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona in Naples to secure qualification for the knockout stages of the Champions League.
Osimhen also returned to the scoring sheet for the night, sealing the goals with an 89th-minute effort in front of the home fans.
Osimhen was too eager to race – Spalletti
Despite his goalscoring comeback, Spalletti noted a negative point in Osimhen’s performance the night after he came on for Giacomo Raspadori in the 50th minute.
As reported by brilafmthe Napoli manager stated that Osimhen was often caught offside because he was told he was anxious and therefore started his runs towards the penalty area too early.
Spalletti said: “Osimhen was often sidelined because he was so anxious that he would start races early.”
Spalletti says Osimhen is not fit yet
The Italian strategist went on to explain that Osimhen is not his usual fighting self yet, so the Napoli team tried to play more possession-based football and take advantage of Osimhen’s aerial prowess.
“He’s not in the right shape to help his teammates yet, but we tried to keep the ball more in the second half and use Osimhen’s ability in the air for long balls,” Spalletti explained.
Osimhen will be hoping to return to his best after returning from injury with a Serie A clash at home against Bologna, the next game on Spalletti’s side’s schedule.
