Victor Osimhen

Early Life

Victor Osimhen was born on 29 December 1998 in Lagos, Nigeria, as the youngest of seven children. His family faced significant hardships, including the death of his mother and his father's job loss. To support his family, Osimhen sold sachet water and other items in traffic. He developed a love for football, often playing barefoot on the streets. His talent was first recognized at Olusosun Primary School, which led him to join the Ultimate Strikers Academy in Lagos. His abilities were honed there, catching the eye of national scouts, which paved the way for his future career.

Career

Osimhen began his professional career with VfL Wolfsburg in 2017. After a season and a half, he moved to Charleroi on loan for the 2018-19 season. His performance in Belgium earned him a transfer to Lille, where he scored 18 goals in one season. In 2020, he made a record transfer to Napoli for €80 million. At Napoli, he won the Serie A Best Young Player award in the 2021-22 season and became the league's top scorer in the 2022-23 season with 26 goals. This achievement set a record for the highest goals scored by an African player in Serie A. Following a loan to Galatasaray for the 2024-25 season, he once again topped the league scoring charts and helped the club secure a domestic double.

Achievements

Victor Osimhen has an impressive list of achievements throughout his career. He won the Golden Boot at the 2015 FIFA U-17 World Cup, contributing to Nigeria's championship victory. At Napoli, he helped the team win their first Serie A title in 33 years and received several individual accolades, including the Best Striker award and the Serie A Footballer of the Year for the 2022-23 season. Additionally, he is the second all-time highest goalscorer for the Nigeria national team, showcasing his impact on the international stage. His recognition continued with the African Footballer of the Year award in 2023, marking a significant milestone in his career.

Legacy

Victor Osimhen is widely regarded as one of the best strikers in the world, known for his explosive speed, physical strength, and aerial prowess. His playing style combines technical skill with a remarkable ability to finish chances, making him a constant threat to defenders. Osimhen's influence extends beyond his statistics; he serves as an inspiration for young Nigerian footballers. He has broken records in Serie A and set new benchmarks for African players in European leagues. His achievements have not only elevated his status but also contributed to the growing recognition of African talent in football.

Notable Quotes

Did You Know?

• Osimhen was the youngest of seven siblings, growing up in a challenging environment.
• He sold sachet water on the streets of Lagos to help support his family during his childhood.
• He was awarded the prestigious Member of the Federal Republic title by the Nigerian President in 2023.

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