Former Torino forward Osarimen Giulio Ebagua has offered his perspective on Nigerian football stars Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman, lauding their achievements while highlighting their differences. Both players have risen to stardom in Serie A, becoming key figures for their respective clubs and country.
Victor Osimhen, who powered Napoli to their first Scudetto in over three decades, has solidified his place among the world’s elite strikers. The 2023 African Footballer of the Year also made history as the first African to win the Serie A Golden Boot.
Despite enduring a slight dip in form in 2024, the Super Eagles striker continues to attract attention from top clubs, including Manchester United and Arsenal, even as he currently plays on loan at Galatasaray.
Ebagua acknowledged Osimhen’s remarkable goal-scoring prowess but admitted to not being a fan of his style.
“I have to be honest: I didn’t particularly like him from a technical and stylistic point of view, but he always stands out for the many goals he scores,” Ebagua told Europa Calcio.
“Osimhen is a certainty in every team he plays for, including the national team. Even if I’m not crazy about him from a technical point of view, the numbers speak for him.”
While Osimhen’s influence slightly waned earlier in the year, Atalanta winger Ademola Lookman emerged as a shining star. Lookman guided Atalanta to their first-ever Europa League triumph and was instrumental in Nigeria’s journey to the Africa Cup of Nations final.
The 27-year-old continued his brilliance this season, scoring 10 goals and providing 5 assists in just 18 Serie A games, placing Atalanta in contention for an unlikely Scudetto.
Lookman’s performances earned him the 2024 African Footballer of the Year award, succeeding Osimhen. He also became the only African player nominated for the Ballon d’Or that year.
Ebagua considers Lookman Africa’s best player and predicts a big move to one of Europe’s top clubs.
“He’s the strongest African footballer by far,” Ebagua stated. “He has incredible qualities and can always improve, aiming for the top. Lookman is a phenomenon in terms of characteristics. He can play anywhere and is extraordinary as a human being.
“Next year, I think he should leave Atalanta, even though the club is doing well. In my personal opinion, Lookman can aspire to Real Madrid, Manchester [United], Barcelona—wherever he wants. He will improve further and raise the bar even higher.”
Former Real Madrid striker Antonio Cassano has also endorsed Lookman, suggesting Napoli could sign him as a replacement for Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, who recently moved to PSG.
As Lookman and Osimhen continue to shine on the global stage, their performances underline the depth of talent within Nigerian football. Both are destined to leave lasting legacies, whether in Serie A or beyond.
