Former Super Eagles star, Jonathan Akpoborie has stated emphatically that Napoli striker, Victor Osimhen deserves to dethrone Sadio Mane to become the next African footballer of the year.
Osimhen has registered his name in the history books at Napoli after helping the Serie A giants win the Scudetto this season, and he is also leading the goal-scoring chart this term.
The Nigerian star also recently surpassed George Weah’s record of 46 goals in the Italian top flight to become the league’s top African scorer of all-time.
Speaking exclusively to Complete Sports, Akpoborie praised Osimhen for his superb performances this term for Napoli and tipped him to be crowned the African Best Footballer this year.
Jonathan Akpoborie hails Osimhen
“Osimhen is our pride and I am happy with his incredible goal-scoring records this season with Napoli.”
“Breaking Weah’s record is not an easy feat and I believe his general performance this season will help him to claim the African Ballon d’Or.”
Akpoborie also claimed there was no player in Africa who could match Osimhen’s record and that alone should propel the Nigerian towards winning the award.
Sadio Mane struggles for form
Looking at Senegalese striker, Sadio Mane this season, he has been struggling at Bayern Munich and is even expected to leave at the end of the term.
As things stand, no one would expect the former Liverpool star to retain his award.
Michael Essien celebrates Osimhen
Earlier, Sports Brief reported how Ghana and Chelsea legend, Michael Essien congratulated Nigerian striker, Osimhen, after he won the Serie A title with Napoli.
The Super Eagles forward inspired the Naples side to their first league title in 33 years, scoring 23 goals this season and likely to add to his tally in the remaining games.
In winning the league with Napoli, the 24-year-old also broke Weah’s long-standing Serie A record as the African player with the most goals in the Italian top flight.