In an exclusive interview with Oganla and Value Jet, Victor Osimhen, the rising star of Nigerian football, shared the remarkable narrative of his football odyssey, tracing his humble beginnings from the streets of Olusosun to earning the title of African Best Player of the Year.
Osimhen recounted his grassroots initiation into the sport, revealing, “I started in Olusosun, just normal street football, just like every other Ojota Olusosun street boys. It’s something that I love doing the most, participating with my friends. I never knew I could take football so seriously and make a name for myself and my family.”
However, Victor Osimhen faced a challenging hiatus from the game, enduring a period of nearly three years when he had to set aside his football dreams to make ends meet. During this time, he engaged in various jobs, including labor work, being a conductor, and selling items like pure water and oranges. The hardship led him to temporarily abandon his passion for the sport.
The turning point came when Osimhen’s landlord’s eldest son recognized his potential and encouraged him to return to football. Osimhen vividly remembered the support he received, stating, “He told me it would get me food if I play, that I should just be thinking about football and not think about anything else. So, he was really one of the few people that pushed me to actualize my dream, to achieve my dream, because he saw that potential in me.”
Osimhen expressed gratitude for those who believed in him during challenging times, acknowledging the pivotal role played by his landlord’s son in reigniting his football aspirations.
Currently with the Super Eagles in Ivory Coast, Osimhen and his teammates have advanced to the knockout phase of the African Cup of Nations. The team eagerly awaits the draw to determine their Round of 16 opponent, with Osimhen’s inspiring journey adding an extra layer of motivation to their pursuit of continental glory.
