In episode 3 of The Obi One Podcast, we’re thrilled to welcome Nigerian superstar and Napoli’s striking sensation, Victor Osimhen. Join John Obi Mikel and Chris McHardy for an in-depth conversation with Victor as he shares his transformative journey both on and off the pitch.
Victor opens up about his personal milestones, from the joy of fatherhood to the life lessons learned from overcoming family challenges and his humble beginnings in Nigeria. He reflects on the dramatic shift from abject poverty to providing for his family through his football success.
The striker delves into his stellar performance in 2023, securing the 8th spot in the Ballon d’Or rankings and recounts the inspiring role Mikel played for all aspiring footballers in Nigeria. Celebrating Napoli’s historic Scudetto win, their first in over three decades, Osimhen credits coach Spalletti for his development and the team’s triumph.
With his sights set on the African Player of the Year award for 2024 and the AFCON just around the corner, Victor also discusses the magnetic pull of Naples as a football city, the incredible support from fans, and the unique atmosphere at the stadium that intimidates visiting teams.
In an exclusive, Osimhen also touches on rejecting a lucrative offer from Saudi Arabia, his future ambitions, the possibility of a move inspired by Mikel’s advice, and how he models his game after the legendary Didier Drogba.
Don’t miss this candid chat with one of football’s most exciting talents. Tune in now for this and more on The Obi One Podcast.
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Timecodes
00:00 – Intro
14:19 – Life as a new father
19:35 – Providing for his family
26:15 – From hardship to hero
29:34 – Ballon d’Or pride
38:38 – Reliving Napoli’s Scudetto
43:00 – Spalletti: The Special One
56:30 – The new King of Africa
01:01:03 – The genius of “Kvaradona”
01:07:07 – Giving back to Naples
1:26:07 – Turning down Saudi riches
1:29:06 – Premier League dream
1:36:00 – Drogba’s influence
1:42:08 – African Cup of Nations goals
1:44:25 – Lessons in humility
