'Africa needs another Ballon d'Or' - When Weah Backed Osimhen to win coveted award

Africa's only Ballon d'Or winner, George Weah believes Victor Osimhen can become the continent's next recipient of football's most coveted individual award.

The 24-year-old forward made history by leading Napoli to their first Serie A title in 33 years last season.

Osimhen also broke Weah's long-standing record as the African player with the most goals in Serie A after scoring for Napoli against Fiorentina earlier this year.

Despite his recent success, Weah - who won the 1995 Ballon d'Or award - previously urged the striker to pursue more accolades.

In congratulating Osimhen on his achievements with Napoli, the current Liberian president believes the Nigerian star has what it takes to win the Ballon d'Or.

"I want to admonish you not be contented. There are many more of my records for you to break. I wish you go on to achieve greater success," Weah posted on Facebook.
Weah described watching Osimhen's 52nd-minute winner against Udinese, which saw Napoli confirm their status as Serie A champions.

"Your movement, your passion, your determination, and hunger brought back many memories to me. I wait for your 100th goal in all competitions in Italy so that you can celebrate (but don’t remove your shirt like I did or you will get a yellow card)."

The Liberian legend also spoke about his own thoughts after winning his first Scudetto with AC Milan:

"I said to myself, why one, why not two? I went on to win the Ballon d’Or. So why not two or more for you, Victor? The sky is your limit. With your dedication, commitment, humility, [and] hard work, you can conquer the world. Africa needs another world best. Africa needs another European best. You Victor, can deliver that for us," he added.

So far this season, Osimhen has struggled to find the same form with five goals in nine appearances for the Italian champions, per TransferMarkt.