A Career of Ups And Downs, an Ivorian Idol and Five Things You Didn’t Know About Victor Osihmen

Many know Victor James Osimhen from his exploits with the U-17 squad and he is set to lead the Super Eagles attack in the international friendly against the Seleção of Brazil in Singapore. After having difficulties kick starting his professional career in Europe, Osimhen is now doing great for himself in France after moving from Belgium.

Here are SIX THINGS you probably didn’t know about Victor Osimhen.

READ ALSO: Who is Viv Solomon-Otabor? Here Are Five Things You Didn’t Know About Eagles’ Latest Invitee

1. Osimhen’s did not play in the Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) moved he moved to Europe. He started his youth career with Ultimate Strikers Academy in Nigeria. It was from here he was spotted and given a chance to represent Nigeria at the 2015 FIFA U-17 World Cup.
2. Osimhen was the star player as Nigeria won the 2015 U-17 World Cup. His incredible performance earned him the golden boot as tournaments top scorer and silver ball as the second best player at the tournament and was named CAF Youth Player of the Year for his achievements in 2015.
3. After excelling amongst his peers, Osimhen decided to move to Europe for his professional career. He secured a move to German Bundesliga giants VfL Wolfsburg in the winter transfer window of 2017 after a successful trial with the club.  He started off with their youth set up but failed to live up to what the club expected of him.
4. He was loaned out to Belgian First Division side Royal Sporting Charleroi. The loan turned out to be the best move for Osimhen as he rediscovered his goal scoring touch. He found the back of the net 19 times in 34 appearances. His return to form did not go unnoticed as the big clubs in Europe queued for his signature. Wolfsburg capitalized on his inflated market value selling him to French Ligue 1 side, Lille, who just lost their star player Nicolas Pepe. At Lille, his incredible start to the season has seen his stock rise significantly.

READ ALSO: Brazil vs Nigeria Betting Tips and Match Preview

5. His idol is Chelsea and Ivory Coast forward Didier Drogba who had a reputation of imposing himself on opposing defenders. Osimhen models his game after his idol but is versatile and as he can play as a lone striker and also drift to the wide areas.

6. He made his debut for the senior national team in an international friendly against Togo. He now has played six games for the Super Eagles and is the team first choice marksman after the retirement of Odion Ighalo.