5 Things to know about Arsenal target Victor Osimhen

Victor Osimhen‘s journey from the streets of Lagos to becoming one of Africa’s most sought-after strikers is nothing short of remarkable. Osimhen is a prime target for Arsenal to fix their CF problems, and it is not the first time the Gunners seek the prolific strikers services. Let’s delve into five key aspects of his career that shed light on his rise to stardom.

Humble beginnings and family life

Born on December 29, 1998, in Lagos, Nigeria, Osimhen is the youngest of six siblings. Raised in the Olusosun community alongside his brother Andrew and four other siblings, Victor’s upbringing was marked by modesty and resilience. His family roots trace back to the Esan South East Local Government Area of Edo State, Nigeria, instilling in him a strong sense of identity and purpose. Despite facing financial challenges, Osimhen’s family provided unwavering support, nurturing his passion for football from an early age.

Breakout stardom at the 2015 U17 World Cup

Osimhen’s meteoric rise to prominence began at the 2015 FIFA U17 World Cup in Chile, where he showcased his exceptional talent on the global stage. Leading the Nigerian U-17 team to victory, Osimhen’s prolific goal-scoring prowess earned him the prestigious Golden Boot and Silver Ball awards. His remarkable tally of 10 goals in seven matches not only secured Nigeria’s triumph but also etched his name in the annals of football history. Osimhen’s performances at the tournament attracted widespread attention from scouts and top clubs across Europe, setting the stage for his professional career.

Record-breaking performances

At the 2015 U17 World Cup, Osimhen didn’t just win accolades; he shattered records. His extraordinary feat of scoring 10 goals in a single tournament eclipsed the previous record held jointly by Florent Sinama Pongolle and Souleymane Coulibaly. Osimhen’s unparalleled goal-scoring spree solidified his status as a prodigious talent destined for greatness. His blend of speed, strength, and clinical finishing caught the eye of top clubs, laying the groundwork for his transition to European football.

Record-breaking transfer to Napoli

Following successful stints at Charleroi and Lille, Osimhen emerged as one of Europe’s most coveted talents, attracting the attention of Italian giants Napoli. In 2020, Napoli secured Osimhen’s services in a blockbuster deal reportedly worth €70 million, with potential add-ons elevating the total fee to €80 million. This historic transfer not only established Osimhen as the most expensive African player at the time but also underscored his immense value and potential. With Napoli, Osimhen aims to further elevate his game and leave an indelible mark on the footballing world.

Arsenal’s missed opportunity

Despite catching the eye of numerous European powerhouses following his U17 World Cup heroics, Osimhen’s path could have taken a different turn. In 2015, Arsenal expressed interest in securing his services, with then-manager Arsene Wenger keen on recruiting the promising striker. However, Osimhen opted to embark on a different journey, eventually joining Wolfsburg in pursuit of regular playing time and physical development. Reflecting on his decision, Osimhen acknowledged the allure of Arsenal but prioritized his long-term development and growth as a player.

“I spoke with Arsene Wenger after the tournament ended and he wanted me to come to Arsenal,” he said. “I had a lot of options. Barcelona, Inter, Atletico Madrid, Juventus and the rest. Arsenal was a good option but it wasn’t the best at the time. I wanted to start playing as soon as I turned 18. I wanted to go to a place where I had time to invest in my game and improve physically. Wolfsburg showed me that possibility.”

What’s next for Victor Osimhen