Super Eagles forward Victor Osimhen has opened up about the three most impactful pieces of advice he has received from coaches throughout his career. The Nigerian striker, who currently plays for Galatasaray under Okan Buruk and represents Nigeria under Eric Chelle, reflected on the wisdom imparted by his mentors.
Spalletti's Focus Lesson
Osimhen's best season came under Luciano Spalletti at Napoli, where he won the Serie A title and the Golden Boot. The Italian coach told him: "Be focused. I won't tell you how to play football. I only teach you the basics which I know you know. But stay focused. Do your job. Sweat for the badge. Sweat for your family. Be proud of yourself. But just do your job and be focused."
Gattuso's Aggressive Mentality
Gennaro Gattuso, known for his tough playing style, gave Osimhen a fiery directive: "In this game, I want you to destroy them. Destroy them. Bleed if you have to bleed, but get the result and be proud of yourself." Osimhen noted that Gattuso likely gave similar advice to other players.
Chelle's Confidence Boost
Eric Chelle, his current national team coach, instilled belief by saying: "You are one of the best strikers in the world. Now go out there and show them why I say you're one of the best." Osimhen added that Chelle urged him to demonstrate his quality on the pitch.
The 2023 African Footballer of the Year emphasized that while these words inspire him, his primary motivation comes from within. Osimhen has played under 12 managers at five clubs and four national team coaches since his breakout at the 2015 FIFA U17 World Cup.
