Victor Osimhen has opened up about the key figures who influenced his journey to the top of African football, naming Didier Drogba, Odion Ighalo, and John Obi Mikel as major inspirations.
Speaking during a Twitch livestream with comedian Carter Efe, the Galatasaray striker credited God, his family, and these football icons for guiding his career path.
Currently in Nigeria recovering from a broken arm sustained during a UEFA Champions League clash against Liverpool, Osimhen reflected on his inspirations.
“I attribute all my success to God. And there are some people who are human beings who put me on the right path.
“In terms of football, everybody knows I draw my inspiration from Didier Drogba. And also the likes of Odion Ighalo.”
Osimhen revealed that he recently visited Ighalo and described him as a major influence both personally and professionally.
“He is someone I love and respect so much and I know the impact he has played in my career,” he said, adding that Ighalo was “a great football player, a big legend” and “one of the guys, people that I have met in football that have really made an impact.”
Speaking about Mikel, Osimhen recounted a memorable act of generosity from the former Super Eagles captain during his first national team camp.
“I saw him after we ate. I saw him and told him, ‘Senior man, I they come in your room.’ He say, make I follow am immediately,” Osimhen said.
“He asked me to come to his room and he sent me money. I can’t say how much he gave me but he gave me pounds.”
The striker also paid tribute to Nigerian football legends he admired while growing up, including Nwankwo Kanu and Jay-Jay Okocha.
“When we were young and used to watch Super Eagles matches, we used to watch Kanu Nwankwo, Okocha, Mikel Obi,” he said.
“Even before I got into the Super Eagles, Ighalo has always been running the show for the Super Eagles.”
What you should know
Osimhen’s reflections highlight the importance of mentorship and role models in football development.
His admiration for Drogba shows the influence of African legends on younger players, while his relationship with Ighalo and Mikel underscores the role of senior players in guiding upcoming talents.
His story also reflects the broader culture within Nigerian football, where established stars often support and inspire the next generation both on and off the pitch.
