Ex-Chelsea star tips Napoli’s Victor Osimhen as favourite for AFCON 2023 Player of the Tournament

Former Chelsea star, Mikel Obi, has endorsed Napoli forward Victor Osimhen as his top choice to clinch the coveted Player of the Tournament title at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, Soccernet.ng reports.

Osimhen, a key inclusion in Jose Peseiro’s squad for the 34th edition of the biennial tournament, is anticipated to play a pivotal role for the Nigerian national team. His performance is expected to be instrumental in the Super Eagles’ quest for success in the championship.

In an interview with CNN, Mikel likened Osimhen to his former Chelsea teammate, Didier Drogba, citing similarities in their strength, skills, and goal-scoring abilities.

“Like I have said a few times, he looks to me like Didier Drogba, with a bit of similarity here and there. He will score goals, he will give you goals, and he will hold a play. [He is a] strong, young, {and] energetic striker. Yeah, when it comes to that department, when it comes to that striking force, right now, I think we are blessed.”

With Nigeria facing challenging opponents—Côte d’Ivoire, Equatorial Guinea, and Guinea-Bissau—in the group stage, the Super Eagles’ progression hangs on their performances, considering recent showings before the tournament.

Sharing his thoughts on the potential standout performer, Mikel singled out Napoli’s forward as his pick for the Player of the Tournament honour.

He added: “If I need to pick a player who will probably win the player of the tournament, I will go for Victor Osimhen.”

As the Super Eagles continue their preparations in Abu Dhabi, with 21 players in camp, they are gearing up for a preparatory competition before their journey to Côte d’Ivoire for the continental showdown.