Influential South African journalist Thomas Kwenaite has responded to comments made by former striker Benni McCarthy regarding Manchester United’s decision to rule out a move for Victor Osimhen.

McCarthy, who previously worked as a first-team coach at Old Trafford, had explained that concerns over the Africa Cup of Nations schedule played a significant role in the club’s decision not to pursue Osimhen despite strong interest in the Nigerian striker.

Reacting to that explanation, Kwenaite suggested that United’s stance on African players during crucial stages of the season is not new.

Speaking on SuperSport’s Soccer Africa programme, the journalist addressed the broader issue of how Afcon participation has historically influenced transfer policies at elite European clubs.

During the broadcast, Kwenaite said, “Manchester United have made it known in the past that they are reluctant to sign African players because at the most critical stage of the championship, they will have to release those players to go and represent their countries at the Africa Cup of Nations.”

Kwenaite further referenced former South Africa international Quinton Fortune as a rare example of an African player who featured prominently for the Red Devils.

He stated, “Except for Quinton Fortune, he's the lucky one who managed to play for Manchester United and they had to release him.”

Osimhen, who rose to global prominence after firing Napoli to a historic Serie A title with 26 league goals, had reportedly been on United’s radar before the club opted to sign Danish forward Rasmus Hojlund instead.

Wale Adejumo