Nigeria and Napoli star Victor Osimhen has expressed delight with his Ballon d’Or nomination and said it is just the beginning of all that’s to come.
Osimhen’s nomination was confirmed on WednesdayAMP by organizers of the prestigious award, French Football – part of a 30-man shortlist for the best footballer in the world.
HERE ARE ALL THE BALLON D'OR NOMINEES! ????✨#ballondor pic.twitter.com/hg1ZByzhDV
— Ballon d'Or #ballondor (@ballondor) September 6, 2023
The Nigerian scored 25 league goals last term for Napoli, beating off Lautaro Martinez of Inter Milan and AC Milan’s Rafael Leao for the Best Striker in Serie A award. To boot, he became the first African to top the Serie A goalscorers’ chart.
He also helped the team reach the quarter-finals of the UEFA Champions League and also helped the Super Eagles secure qualification to the delayed 2023 Africa Cup of Nations.
“It is good – Glory be to God for this achievement, Osimhen said, while speaking with Football Fans Tribe ahead of Nigeria’s Afcon qualifiers with Sao Tome and Principe in Uyo. “It’s a big milestone for me because it was my childhood dream, you know. Being up there among the best is an amazing feeling for me and I thank those who have been very supportive.
“This is just the beginning. I will keep on working hard to make sure I achieve all my dreams.”
The awards for the best men’s and women’s player in the world will be presented on October 30.