Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen, who played in Napoli, one of the Italian First Football League (Serie A) teams, was awarded the “Best Foreign Athlete of the Year” award by the Foreign Press Association in Italy.
As a result of the voting made recently by the members of the Foreign Press Association, the 25-year-old Nigerian striker Osimhen received the “Best Athlete of the Year” award for his performance throughout 2022.
At a ceremony held at the Foreign Press Association, headquartered in the capital city of Rome, the award was presented to the star football player by Alba Kepi, Director of the Sports Committee of the Foreign Press Association, and members Dündar Keşaplı, Maarten van Aalderen, Elizabeth Missland and Anadolu Agency Rome Correspondent Barış Seçkin.
Speaking at the awards ceremony, Osimhen drew attention to the role played by his coach Luciano Spalletti in his development, saying, “Spalletti is an outstanding coach and he is the main reason why we are so good this season. “I have to say a big thank you. He helps me improve. If I’m playing as the best player, it’s because of him.” used the phrases.
Osimhen praised his teammate, stating that Georgian player Kvicha Kvaratskhelia’s assists also played a role in coming forward with his goals.
Reminding that his name is associated with the English Premier League teams, Osimhen said, “Premier League? I’m working very hard to get there one day. But right now I enjoy playing in Serie A, which is as difficult as it is beautiful. Italy is the best for me. It’s an honor for me to play in one of the top 5 leagues.” gave the answer.
Stating that former football player Didier Drogba is his idol, Osimhen said, “I am also inspired by Samuel Eto’o and Robert Lewandoski.” said.
The Nigerian striker also stated that he dreams of winning the championship for Napoli. “People live here to play football, to support the team. This encourages me to return the love shown to me.” he said.
On a question about racism, Osimhen expressed his satisfaction with the interest shown by the fans, but stated that racism continues to be a problem, and that he will continue to talk about it and therefore to fight.
Osimhen said that he will continue to play with a mask on the fields for a while due to the problem he had before.
Naples President Aurelio De Laurentiis, who attended the press conference with Osimhen, reminded that they are the clear leader in Serie A and said, “The championship can drive the city crazy.” made the statement.
MESSAGE FROM OSIMHEN TO EARTHQUAKE
After the award ceremony, Osimhen answered the questions.
Reminding that they put the match jerseys on sale for the benefit of earthquake victims with the initiative of his teammate Eljif Elmas, Osimhen said, “Eljif Elmas did an excellent job. He came to us in the dressing room and talked about this situation and his offer of help. He played in Turkey. We gave the necessary support. He is a very good person. He did the job. I offer my condolences to all those who lost their loved ones. My thoughts are with them.” he said.
Osimhen also stated that they look at the UEFA Champions League, the final of which will be played in Istanbul this year, with the same ambition, energy and performance as in Serie A, “Of course, it is an area that requires a lot of struggle with big teams. Napoli is also a top-level team. We We want to continue walking in the league like this.” made its assessment.
The Nigerian footballer is by far the top scorer in Serie A with 19 goals in 22 games this season.