Victor Osimhen began his international ascent by securing the Golden Boot at the 2015 FIFA U-17 World Cup, where he registered ten goals to lead Nigeria to the tournament title. Born on 29 December 1998 in Lagos, he emerged from the Olusosun district to establish himself as a premier striker across multiple European leagues.
Early Development and Breakthrough
Raised in a densely populated area of Lagos near a major landfill, Osimhen navigated poverty by selling items in traffic. He honed his skills at the Ultimate Strikers Academy, eventually catching the attention of national scouts. His performance in Chile during the 2015 youth tournament provided the platform for a move to professional European football.
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In 2017, he signed a three-and-a-half-year contract with VfL Wolfsburg. Following injury setbacks and a loan spell at Belgian club Charleroi in 2018–19, he successfully transitioned to Ligue 1 side Lille. His tenure in France produced eighteen goals, prompting a significant transfer to Italy.
Napoli and Domestic Success
Transferring to Napoli for a club-record €80 million in 2020, Osimhen became a central figure in the club's resurgence. His impact earned him recognition as a Member of the Federal Republic by President Muhammadu Buhari in 2023.
International Standing
Osimhen made his senior debut for Nigeria in June 2017 and has since become the national team's second-highest all-time goalscorer. He participated in the Africa Cup of Nations in 2019, 2023, and 2025, reaching the final in 2023. At the 2023 CAF Awards, he was named African Footballer of the Year, the first Nigerian recipient since 1999.
Fast facts
- Born: 29 December 1998, Lagos
- Primary Position: Striker
- 2015 FIFA U-17 World Cup Top Scorer: 10 goals
- 2023 African Footballer of the Year
- Napoli Record Transfer: €80 million
- 2023 Ballon d'Or Ranking: 8th
- National Honour: Member of the Federal Republic
Questions readers ask
Which club did Victor Osimhen join after leaving Napoli?
He moved to the Turkish club Galatasaray ahead of the 2024–25 season.
What major individual award did he win in 2023?
He was named the African Footballer of the Year at the 2023 CAF Awards.
