Victor Osimhen, the celebrated Nigerian footballer and former CAF Men’s Player of the Year, has spoken out to dispel rumors of a rift with Ademola Lookman, the latest recipient of the prestigious award.
Ademola Lookman’s victory at the 2024 CAF Awards in Marrakech, Morocco, marked a momentous achievement as he bested African football giants like Achraf Hakimi and Serhou Guirassy. His win followed Osimhen’s recognition in 2023, when the Napoli striker was lauded for his pivotal role in leading his club to a historic Serie A title.
Osimhen’s noticeable silence on social media regarding Lookman’s win led to speculation, with some fans suggesting jealousy or strained relations between the two Nigerian stars. Given Osimhen’s typically active online engagement, his absence of public congratulations stirred discussions among fans and critics alike.
Addressing the matter, Osimhen responded firmly to a direct query from a fan on X (formerly Twitter). He revealed that he had congratulated Lookman privately, providing precise details about when the message was sent to eliminate any doubts.
In his statement, Osimhen underscored the value of personal communication over public displays, highlighting the respect and camaraderie shared between him and Lookman. His response effectively quells the rumors, reinforcing the message that genuine support does not always require a public spotlight, particularly in a competitive yet united sports community.
This exchange also serves as a reminder of the pressures athletes face in navigating public expectations while maintaining personal relationships within their professional spheres.
He replied to a fan who questioned him on X;
“Yes bro since yesterday, immediately after my game, sent a text around 23:49 Turkish time.him go reply me soon, cos I know say message choke for him phone wella😂,”