Former Ghanaian captain Asamoah Gyan has expressed his strong belief that Victor Osimhen, the Super Eagles’ striker, is poised to secure the prestigious African Player of the Year accolade for the current year. Gyan’s confidence stems from Osimhen’s exceptional performance during the preceding season, which he believes sets him apart from other contenders in the race for the title.
Gyan, a well-respected figure in African football, highlighted Osimhen’s remarkable achievements throughout the previous season as decisive factors that position him as a frontrunner for the esteemed award. The 24-year-old Nigerian striker showcased his football prowess on the grand stage, notably netting an impressive 26 goals across 32 league matches for Napoli. His contributions significantly contributed to Napoli’s triumphant claim of the Serie A championship last season.
Reflecting on historical achievements, Gyan pointed out that Nigerian football hasn’t seen an African Player of the Year since Kanu Nwankwo’s win in 1999. With this in mind, Gyan firmly asserts that Osimhen possesses all the necessary attributes and accomplishments to carry the torch for Nigerian football and ultimately clinch the highly coveted title in 2023.
As the football world eagerly awaits the announcement of the African Player of the Year award, Gyan’s endorsement of Osimhen adds another layer of excitement to the proceedings. Gyan’s own illustrious career and understanding of the sport’s nuances make his prediction carry significant weight.
Should Victor Osimhen secure the accolade, it would not only mark a personal achievement but also a milestone for Nigerian football. The collective hopes of fans, fellow players, and football aficionados now converge on the anticipation of Osimhen’s potential coronation as the African Player of the Year for 2023.
“For me, he (Osimhen) deserves it. As a striker and seeing what he is doing, for the first time in over 30 years, winning the league with Napoli. He deserves it,” Gyan told Brilla FM.
