Prrsently, Victor Osimhen, Nigerian football sensation has been nominated for the prestigious FIFA Best Player award, further cementing his status as one of the world’s top football talents. Osimhen’s nomination comes hot on the heels of his nomination for the 2023 Ballon d’Or award. The Super Eagles forward finds himself in illustrious company, with the likes of Argentine superstar Lionel Messi, prolific striker Erling Haaland, midfield maestro Kevin De Bruyne, and French sensation Kylian Mbappe all vying for the coveted title in the men’s category.
However, with Osimhen and the other stars wjo made it on the list are Julian Alvarez, Marcelo Brozovic, İlkay Gundogan, Rodri, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, Declan Rice, and Bernardo Silva. This historic nomination makes Victor Osimhen the first Nigerian player ever to be listed for the FIFA Best Footballer Award, an honor that highlights his exceptional skills and contributions to the world of football.
Osimhen’s remarkable performance for Napoli last season played a pivotal role in the Italian Serie A side’s victory, securing their first Scudetto in 33 years. His 25 league goals were instrumental in clinching the Best Striker in Serie A award, beating out tough competition from Inter Milan’s Lautaro Martinez and AC Milan’s Rafael Leao.
Osimhen’s achievement was very visible as he also set a new record, making him the first African to top the Serie A scorers’ chart, surpassing the legendary George Weah’s record for the most goals scored by an African in the Italian league. Beyond his club success, Osimhen’s impact extended to the UEFA Champions League, where he helped Napoli reach the quarter-finals. His contributions were equally significant in securing a ticket for the Nigerian national team, the Super Eagles, to the delayed 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
While Victor Osimhen basks in the glory of his FIFA Best Player nomination, his compatriot Asisat Oshoala, who also earned a Ballon d’Or nomination in the female category, narrowly missed out on the FIFA Best Award shortlist. The competition remains fierce in both the men’s and women’s categories, with standout nominees vying for recognition. The winners will be revealed during the FIFA Best Awards ceremony, and fans around the world eagerly await the announcement to see who will claim the coveted titles.
Apart from the player awards, FIFA also recognizes the best coaches in both the men’s and women’s categories. Men’s best coach nominees include Pep Guardiola, Simone Inzaghi, Ange Postecoglou, Luciano Spalletti, and Xavi. Women’s best coach nominees consist of Peter Gerhardsson, Jonatan Giraldez, Tony Gustavsson, Emma Hayes, and Sarina Wiegman.
To this end, the FIFA Best Awards celebrate excellence in football across the globe and offer a platform is said to be an opportunity to honor the outstanding talent and contributions of players and coaches in the sport.