Exclusive: Victor Osimhen can Transform Chelsea into Champions, says Nigeria National Coach

One of Nigeria’s national team coaches, Daniel Ogunmodede, has declared Victor Osimhen as the best striker in the world, claiming the forward has what it takes to lead any team to a Premier League title.

Manchester United, Chelsea, and Arsenal are all reportedly in the market for a striker this summer, and Osimhen is among the top names being considered.

While United and Arsenal are yet to finalise their plans, Chelsea appear to be the most determined club to secure a striker in the coming transfer window.

Despite already having Nicolas Jackson and Christopher Nkunku in their squad, the Blues made an attempt to sign Osimhen late in last summer’s transfer window but failed to reach an agreement with the player.

Former Chelsea midfielder John Mikel Obi revealed he was involved in negotiations during that period and believes that, should both parties decide to revisit the deal, it could be completed without complications.

Mikel, who won the Premier League, Champions League, and FA Cup with Chelsea, believes his fellow Nigerian has the quality to transform any top side into Premier League champions.

Speaking with SportsBoom.com, Ogunmodede echoed Mikel’s sentiments, praising Osimhen as the best finisher in world football and a transformative figure for any team.

"In my opinion, Victor Osimhen is currently the best number nine in the world," he told SportsBoom.com. 

"There are many top strikers in Europe, but no one brings what Victor does to the pitch. Any team that signs him is almost guaranteed to win the league title. He’s that influential."

Dominating in Turkey: Osimhen's Loan Spell at Galatasaray

Osimhen is currently on loan at Galatasaray from Napoli. The former Lille striker has already cemented his place as a club legend in Istanbul, having led Galatasaray to both the Turkish Super Lig title and the Turkish Cup.

In 40 appearances, he has scored 36 goals—three of which came in the club’s two most recent matches, securing both trophies within the span of five days.

"I’m excited about Victor Osimhen’s achievements in Turkey," Ogunmodede told SportsBoom.com.

"Considering what happened (in the transfer market last summer), making that move was a bold decision—but he’s handled it brilliantly. Osimhen deserves all the success he's getting. He’s hardworking, disciplined, and fully committed."

National Team Update: Osimhen Rested, Awoniyi Out Injured

Nigeria's senior national team is set to play three matches at the Gtech Community Stadium, home of Premier League side Brentford FC. However, both Victor Osimhen and Nottingham Forest forward Taiwo Awoniyi have been left out of the squad.

Osimhen was granted permission to rest after a demanding season, while Awoniyi was excluded due to injury.

Awoniyi is currently recovering from surgery following a serious abdominal injury sustained in the 88th minute of Forest's 2–2 draw with Leicester City at the City Ground on Sunday, May 11.

The 27-year-old collided with the goal frame but was allowed to continue playing after receiving treatment on the pitch. Medical staff initially believed the injury was minor, but further evaluation revealed its severity.

"The injury was unfortunate, but we're relieved and happy that Taiwo is recovering well after the surgery."

Awoniyi completed the game despite discomfort. Nottingham Forest owner Evangelos Marinakis was seen entering the pitch after full-time and was spotted arguing with coach Nuno Espírito Santo.

"He’s a player we truly value in the national team as well because players like him are rare. We're thankful the surgery was successful, and we have no doubt he’ll return stronger, ready to compete and prove himself on the pitch once again. He’s a natural finisher with real quality."

Awoniyi has since regained consciousness from his induced coma and remains under medical observation.

Controversy Rekindled Over Offside Rule After Awoniyi Injury

The incident has reignited debate over football’s offside rule changes introduced in 2020, which allow assistant referees to delay raising the flag to avoid wrongly disallowing a potential goal.

While such injuries are rare, Awoniyi’s case has sparked fresh discussion, with some fans calling for the rule to be scrapped, while others believe players must better time their runs.

"It was a difficult situation for everyone, including the officials. However, Taiwo is a hardworking and passionate player. You could see the intent in the way he went for the ball; he simply wanted to make an impact and score for his team," Ogunmodede concluded.