Osimhen is expected to spark a transfer war among Europe’s top clubs when the summer window opens.
It was in the 76th minute, Victor Osimhen came off to a loud ovation at the Diego Armando Maradona for one last time this season as Napoli beat Sampdoria 2-0 in their final Serie A game.
Osimhen had opened the scoring from the penalty spot before coming off for Giovanni Simeone, who came on to score the second goal.
Osimhen- Napoli's hero
The Super Eagles star’s name echoed around the stadium after scoring the first goal, similar to spectators in ancient Rome arena chanting a gladiator’s name- Gladiator is a great movie, by the way.
Osimhen then went off to a great ovation, not the first time at the Diego Armando Maradona Stadium this season.
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But as he went off, the question on everyone’s mind was whether that was the last time Osimhen would put on a Napoli jersey.
Osimhen has had an unbelievable this season, breaking numerous records and spearheading Napoli’s first Serie A title in 33 years.
Before this season, Napoli last won the title under the great Diego Armando Maradona (God rest his soul) in 1990.
Since then, they have tried and tried until Osimhen happened this season. The Nigerian striker was the focal point in their triumph this season.
Osimhen finished as the top scorer with 26 goals, including the all-important goal that clinched the title for Napoli.
He also had five goals in six Champions League games, even though Napoli crashed out in the quarter-final.
The dilemma in front of Osimhen
However, Osimhen’s best individual season yet has come at a cost for Napoli, as he has caught the attention of Europe’s top clubs.
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The Nigeria international is expected to spark a bidding war among Europe’s top clubs this summer.
Osimhen still has two years left on his contract in Naples, having joined Napoli from Lille for a club-record fee of €75.00m in 2020.
But his future is a subject of debate, putting him in a dilemma. Osimhen is well-beloved in Naples and seen as a mini-god, on the same pedestal as Maradona.
In fact, he may not really know the impact of what he has done to a whole city until he retires from football.
But while Osimhen is well-loved in Naples, he also has to think about his future. In fairness, it would be understandable if he decides to stay at Napoli for another season, considering he is settled in the city.
However, the truth is there is no better time for Osimhen to leave the club than now. While it may seem unfair to Napoli fans, who believe Osimhen at least owe them one more season, Osimhen may not get a better opportunity again.
This is because this summer is different, with the likes of Real Madrid, Paris Saint-Germain, Bayern Munich, Manchester United and Chelsea all looking for a quality centre-forward.
These clubs have all been linked with a move for Osimhen, with about five reportedly having genuine interest, even though money could be a stumbling block.
But irrespective of the figure Napoli quote, these clubs are expected to swoop in for the Nigerian striker’s services.
With that said, this provides a perfect opportunity to continue his career, where he has a chance to win bigger trophies and individual awards.
No disrespect to Napoli, who just won the league title, but their chances of guaranteed success every season is low compared to the clubs that have been linked with Osimhen.
Even in Italy, they are still seen below the two Milan clubs and Juventus. For that reason, it may be the perfect time for Osimhen to leave the club and join a bigger side in Europe.
While one could argue that a club like Chelsea will not be playing, the Blues are still bigger than Napoli, and the Premier League will do a lot more for Osimhen’s profile than Serie A.
The likes of Real Madrid, PSG and Bayern Munich are also more exciting than Napoli, which provides Osimhen with a lot of options.
He may not get this option again, as it is unlikely for about five big European clubs to be on the lookout for a striker every summer.
The Nigerian has paid his dues in the three years he has spent at Napoli so far, bringing the fans happiness, joy and a Serie A title.
It is now time for him to say his goodbyes and take a big step in his career.
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