Victor Osimhen was named 8th best player in the world at the recently concluded 2023 Ballon d’Or ceremony
Super Eagles star Victor Osimhen has shared his thoughts on the Nigeria national team ignoring Lionel Messi in the 2023 Ballon d’Or voting, Soccernet.ng reported. p>
In a recent podcast interview, Osimhen acknowledged that everyone is entitled to their own opinion and pointed out that Nigeria did not vote for him.
Despite being looked down upon, the Napoli striker highlighted his huge contribution to Diego Maradona’s team last season.
Osimhen’s impressive performances, including scoring 31 goals in 39 games, were key ingredients for Napoli to win the Serie A title after a 33-year wait.
This achievement placed him eighth in the Ballon d’Or rankings, making him the first Nigerian to receive such recognition.
Osimhen addressed the derogatory opinions on the Obionepodcast and continued to focus on those who wholeheartedly support and appreciate him.
“The truth is, I saw what you said today. One of my friends showed it to me. But everyone has the right to their own opinion. I feel like it is, I always believe that, and no one can deny my commitment last season. No one can discount my performance last season,” he said.
Nigeria’s players further emphasized the importance of family and friends and thanked them for their unwavering support.
He added: “At the end of the day, I finished 8th. Even if I was 10th or 11th, I would have done it for myself to get the recognition that I have been or will ever be recognized for. So for me it doesn’t change anything, they can choose whoever they want, it’s all about love. As for me, I want someone who loves me dearly, I don’t really think about these things because I focus on the people who support me, the people who protect me, all those things: my family, my friends.”< /p>
The Super Eagles talisman stressed that he is grateful for the love and encouragement of those who recognize his efforts instead of focusing on those who try to diminish his achievements.
“These [love and support] are the things that really matter to me. Not the ones that try to downplay everything that i have worked on, the season that I had, and try to put the credit to another man. So, for me, it’s normal. Everyone is entitled to their opinion. So it doesn’t change anything. I came in 8th place, I’m proud of myself,” Osimhen concluded.
Osimhen will definitely be absent from the Super Eagles’ line-up for the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier against Lesotho and Zimbabwe as he continues to recover from the injury he sustained in the match between Nigeria and Mozambique. right.
