- Victor Osimhen celebrates his 26th birthday, marking a remarkable career that has seen him rise from Lagos street football to becoming one of Europe’s most feared strikers
- Osimhen’s journey includes winning the FIFA U-17 World Cup Golden Boot, breaking transfer records with Napoli, and clinching the Serie A title in 2023
- TheRadar has compiled below 26 interesting facts about the Super Eagles star
Super Eagles star forward Victor Osimhen’s story so far has been extraordinary; a tale of determination and unmatched talent.
Born in Lagos, Nigeria, Osimhen faced poverty and the loss of a loved one but never wavered in his dream of becoming a professional footballer. Now, at 26, he is one of the world’s most feared strikers, proudly representing Galatasaray and the Nigerian national team.
From playing barefoot on Lagos streets to breaking transfer records and winning silverware in Europe, Osimhen’s journey has been inspiring.
To celebrate his 26th birthday, here’s a look at 26 defining moments that have shaped his career and made him an inspiration for athletes worldwide.
26 facts about Super Eagles star Victor Osimhen
TheRadar has compiled below 26 interesting facts about the Super Eagles' star:
1. Birth in Lagos, Nigeria: Born on December 29, 1998, in Lagos, Osimhen grew up in Olusosun, a densely populated area popular for its struggles.
2. Tragic loss of his mother: Osimhen lost his mother at a young age, adding to the financial struggles his family faced.
3. Humble beginnings: Victor sold bottled water on the streets to support his family, showcasing his work ethic from a young age.
4. Ultimate Strikers Academy Discovery: His talent shone through at the Lagos-based academy, which shaped his early football career.
5. Nigerian U-17 call-up (2015): Osimhen earned a spot in Nigeria’s U-17 team and prepared for the FIFA U-17 World Cup.
6. Golden Boot at FIFA U-17 World Cup (2015): He scored 10 goals to win the tournament’s Golden Boot, leading Nigeria to victory.
7. Silver Ball Award (2015): He was also awarded the Silver Ball for his exceptional performances in the tournament.
8. CAF Youth Player of the Year (2015): His stellar World Cup campaign earned him this prestigious African award.
9. Move to VfL Wolfsburg (2017): Osimhen signed his first professional contract with the Bundesliga club, making his European debut.
10. Struggles at Wolfsburg: Injuries and limited opportunities hindered his time in Germany.
11. Loan to Charleroi (2018): A move to Belgium revived his career as he scored 20 goals in 36 appearances.
12. Belgian Player of the Year Nomination (2019): He was recognised for his impact at Charleroi.
13. Permanent move to Charleroi: Charleroi initially planned to sign him permanently but couldn’t hold onto the rising star.
14. Transfer to Lille (2019): Osimhen joined Lille for €12 million and made an instant impact in Ligue 1.
15. Ligue 1 Player of the Month (November 2019): He earned this award for his goal-scoring exploits.
16. UNFP Ligue 1 Team of the Year (2020): His contributions were acknowledged as he made the league’s best XI.
17. Napoli record transfer (2020): Napoli paid €70 million, making him Nigeria’s most expensive player.
18. Serie A debut goal: On October 17, 2020, Osimhen scored his first Serie A goal, showcasing his talent.
19. Serie A title winner (2022/23): He played a crucial role in helping Napoli win their first Scudetto in over three decades.
20. Champions League qualification with Napoli: Osimhen’s goals helped Napoli secure their spot in Europe’s elite competition.
21. Top scorer for Nigeria in AFCON qualifiers: He demonstrated his importance to the national team.
22. National honours: On May 29, 2023, he was made a Member of the Federal Republic by President Muhammadu Buhari.
23. Ballon d’Or ranking: He finished eighth in the 2023 Ballon d’Or ceremony, becoming the first Nigerian to make the top ten.
24. African Footballer of the Year: In 2023, Osimhen became the first Nigerian to win the African Footballer of the Year award since Nwankwo Kanu in 1999.
25. Net worth of $12 million (2024): His financial success reflects the hard work behind his career.
26. Galatasaray loan: In 2024, Osimhen secured a move to Galatasaray on loan, with a unique clause allowing him to leave in January.
“Don't do it,” Galatasaray assistant manager sends message to board on Osimhen’s transfer
Previously, TheRadar reported that Galatasaray’s acquisition of Super Eagles forward Osimhen in early September was a surprise move, one that saw the Nigerian star sign on loan just days after the European transfer window closed, although linked with several Premier League clubs and even a rumoured lucrative Saudi offer, Osimhen found a new home in Istanbul.
However, Galatasaray Assistant Manager Ismael Garcia Gomez has sounded a cautionary note about Victor Osimhen’s future with the club, casting doubt on Galatasaray’s potential financial pursuit of a permanent deal for the striker.
