Victor Osimhen has opened up on the key figures behind his rise in football, naming Didier Drogba, Odion Ighalo and John Obi Mikel as major influences in his journey to the top.
The Galatasaray striker, currently in Nigeria recovering from injury, spoke candidly about his development and the people who guided him along the way, stressing that his success is rooted in faith, family and mentorship.
“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 highlighted the role Ighalo has played in his life, revealing that he recently visited the former Super Eagles striker and continues to hold him in high regard. Osimhen spoke during a Twitch livestream with comedian Carter Efe in the early hours of Saturday.
“He is someone I love and respect so much and I know the impact he has played in my career,” he said, describing Ighalo as “a great football player, a big legend” and one of the individuals who has left a lasting mark on him.
The Nigerian forward also shared a personal moment involving Mikel from his early days with the Super Eagles, recalling an act of generosity that left a strong impression on him.
“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.”
Beyond those direct influences, Osimhen paid tribute to the Nigerian legends he grew up watching, including Nwankwo Kanu and Jay Jay Okocha, noting how their performances inspired his dream of playing for the national team.
“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.”
Osimhen’s reflections offer insight into the influences behind one of Africa’s leading strikers, underlining the importance of role models and support systems in shaping a successful football career.
