Why Hoffenheim splashed over N19bn on forgotten Super Eagles striker Orban — Club director

Bundesliga club TSG Hoffenheim have explained the decision to sign Nigeria Super Eagles striker Gift Orban, who has moved from France to Germany after a challenging year at Olympique Lyonnais.

The transfer, finalised for a combined fee of €12 million, including potential add-ons, means a fresh start for the 22-year-old forward, who struggled to find his footing in Ligue 1.

Orban joined Lyon from KAA Gent in January 2024 but faced difficulties adapting to the French league, managing only five goals in 21 appearances.

His limited playing time was exacerbated by a fallout with Lyon's management, leading to his exclusion from the first team for much of the current season.

He had not featured in the league since September against Marseille and was deemed surplus to requirements as Lyon faced their struggles, hovering near relegation.

In contrast, Hoffenheim is currently 15th in the Bundesliga and have been seeking to improve their attacking options heading into the second half and business end of the season.

The club's Sporting Director, Andreas Schicker, provided an insight into Orban's potential impact, stating that TSG have found what they were looking for.

"In Gift Orban, we have found exactly the fast striker with good depth that we were looking for,” he said.

He highlighted Orban's proven goal-scoring ability and anticipated that his skills would add versatility to Hoffenheim's attack.

Orban's impressive record at Genk, where he netted 32 goals in 52 appearances, has kept interest alive despite his recent struggles. Hoffenheim hope to rekindle that form as they aim to improve their offensive output, having scored only 20 goals in their first 15 league matches this season.

As he begins a new chapter in his career, Orban will wear jersey number 14 at Hoffenheim and joins fellow Nigerian Kevin Akpoguma in the squad.

The club's management is hopeful that this acquisition will help them steer clear of relegation threats as they continue their campaign in Germany's top-flight.

Orban has since resumed training with his new teammates ahead of their first game in 2025 against Wolfsburg at home.