Victor Osimhen vs. Ivan Toney: Who is better value for money?

Victor Osimhen and Ivan Toney.

Victor Osimhen vs. Ivan Toney: Who is better value for money?

Izuchukwu Akawor • Izuchukwu Akawor • 12:51 - 15.08.2024

Victor Osimhen continues to divide opinion despite his impressive resume, with the Super Eagles star compared to England's Ivan Toney.

Recent social media debates have pitted Nigerian star Victor Osimhen against England's Ivan Toney, sparking discussions about their relative merits and potential transfer values.

While both strikers have impressed in their respective leagues, a closer look at their careers and achievements reveals significant differences.

Victor Osimhen: Accomplished Nigerian striker

At just 25 years old, Victor Osimhen has already amassed an impressive array of individual accolades that span his entire career.

From his early days as a youth player to his current status as one of Europe's most sought-after strikers, the Nigerian's cabinet is a reminder to his relentless pursuit of excellence.

Victor Osimhen is expected to leave Napoli this summer | Credit: Imago

Osimhen's journey began with a bang, as he showcased his ability early for Nigeria on the international stage. He won the Golden Boot at both the African U-17 and FIFA U-17 levels, cementing his status as a prodigy in the making.

His dominance continued as he was named the CAF Youth Player of the Year in 2015, setting the stage for his rise to stardom.

Emmanuel Amunike coached Napoli star Victor Osimhen at u-17 level
Emmanuel Amunike coached Napoli star Victor Osimhen at u-17 level | Getty

In recent years, Osimhen's achievements have only grown more impressive as he was crowned the CAF Best Player of the Year for the 2022/2023 season.

Plying his trade in Italy's Serie A, the Nigerian striker has been a standout performer, earning the accolades of Serie A Best Young Player (2021/2022), Footballer of the Year and Best Striker - the first African to win the award - after leading Napoli to a first league title in 33 years.

African Player of the Year, Victor Osimhen, (Photo Credit: CAF/X)

The cherry on top of Osimhen's illustrious career is his 8th-place finish in the 2022/2023 Ballon d'Or rankings, a recognition that solidifies his status among the elite players in world football.

Ivan Toney: Premier League Proven Star

While Osimhen's trophy cabinet may be more impressive, Ivan Toney's journey to the top of English football is no less remarkable.

Ivan Toney scores against Nottingham Forest in his first game in 8 months.
Ivan Toney scores against Nottingham Forest in his first game in 8 months. (Photo Credit: Brentford/X)

The 28-year-old striker has firmly established himself as one of the Premier League's most reliable goalscorers, proving his worth in England's top flight.

Toney's path to the Premier League was paved through his success in the Championship, where he displayed his goal-scoring ability, hinting at the potential he would later unleash in the top division.

Brentford Striker Ivan Toney
Ivan Toney has been Brentford's main man.

His ability to perform consistently across different levels of English football has been a testament to his adaptability and mental fortitude.

Now, as a key figure in the Premier League, Toney has continued to impress, cementing his reputation as one of the most formidable strikers in the league.

Ivan Toney, Brentford striker is back for the club after a ban for betting|| Photo Credit: IMAGO

His performances have not gone unnoticed, with his rumoured transfer fee of £50-70 million highlighting the value that clubs place on his services.

The Debate

The comparison between Osimhen and Toney has been fueled by discussions about potential transfer fees, with some arguing that Toney represents better value at a rumoured £50 million compared to Osimhen's reported £110 million price tag.

However, this debate overlooks several key factors:

  • Age and Potential

At 25, Osimhen is younger than Toney and potentially has more room for growth and a longer career at the highest level.

Victor Osimhen led Napoli to the Serie A title last season || Credit: X
  • International Experience

Osimhen's success with Nigeria, including being the top scorer in AFCON qualifiers, adds another dimension to his game.

  • Proven in Multiple Leagues
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While Toney has excelled in England, Osimhen has demonstrated his ability to adapt and thrive in both France's Ligue 1 and Italy's Serie A.

  • Individual Accolades

Osimhen's extensive list of personal awards, including recognition at the global level, speaks to his exceptional talent and consistency.

Victor Osimhen missed his first official game of the season for Napoli. (Photo Credit: Imago)

Conclusion

While Toney has undoubtedly proven himself in the Premier League, Osimhen's career trajectory, the array of honours, and performances across multiple top European leagues suggest a player of rare quality.

The Nigerian striker's achievements at such a young age indicate not just current ability, but immense potential for future growth.

Brentford striker Ivan Toney has some catching up to do | Imago

The debate between these two strikers ultimately highlights the difficulty in comparing players across different leagues and career stages.

What's clear is that both Osimhen and Toney have the quality to make significant impacts at the highest level of football, albeit with different strengths and career paths.

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