I deserve to be top in the world, African footballer of the year — Napoli icon Osimhen

SSC Napoli hero and Nigeria Super Eagles forward Victor Osimhen has reacted to suggestions that he is the next African Footballer of the Year. 

Osimhen has put his name forward following comments made by the Napoli hero during a chat with journalists in Lagos. 

The 24-year-old was one of the last players to arrive at the Nigeria Super Eagles camp in Lagos ahead of a crucial AFCON qualifier later today. 

Nigeria’s Super Eagles are guests this Sunday in Monrovia as they tackle Sierra Leone with a ticket to the 2023 AFCON at stake. 

The Super Eagles camped in Lagos before travelling to Monrovia for the clash with Napoli’s Osimhen and Bright Osayi-Samuel the last to join in. 

After their training at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena, Osimhe spoke with the media during a greet and meet session with journalists at their Eko Hotels and Suites home.

Responding to a question from Pulse Sports Nigeria on being the next African Footballer of the Year, Osimhen says he has done enough to deserve to be at the top in Africa and the world. 

“I think with the kind of season i had and everything that i have put in - the work i have done individually, collectively for my club (and) myself, i think i deserve to be top in world football (and) in terms of even African footballer of the year,” he said.

While he believes he deserves the crown as Africa’s next football king, Osimhen remains humble, leaving everything to God as he pays tribute to other Africans. 

“Like i said, a lot of Africans have done so well for themselves and respective clubs also,” he added. 

“But if God wills it, I am going to win it. If not, I will keep on working hard till I win it,” he added. 

Osimhen and the Super Eagles are already in Monrovia ready for the important battle against their host Sierra Leone.

The Super Eagles are currently second in Group A behind Guinea-Bissau. 

However, Nigeria could become the latest country to seal a ticket to Ivory Coast with a win over the Leone Stars.