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Soccer News of Friday, 17 March 2023

Source: www.mynigeria.com

'It is true that Arsenal wanted me' — Why young Osimhen snubbed Arsenal for Wolfsburg in 2016

Victor Osimhen Victor Osimhen

Napoli Starman Victor Osimhen could have joined Arsenal in 2017 following his impressive campaign at the U-17 FIFA World Cup in 2015 where he netted 10 goals to help Nigeria win the tournament.

Osimhen's performance in Chile drawn interest from several European clubs with Arsenal and Wolfsburg leading the race for his signature.

The Bundesliga outfit eventually beat the Gunners to the signature of the prolific young striker after agreeing to a pre-contract in 2016 before Osimhen eventually put pen to paper in January 2017.

Osimhen later revealed that he was at the Emirates for trials in 2016 but was attracted to the project at German club.

“It’s true that a big team like Arsenal wanted me and I feel honoured to be invited over,” Osimhen told BBC Sport.

“But personally I feel Wolfsburg is a ladder for me to reach my professional goals.

“Yes Arsenal is a good team for young players but Wolfsburg is the best club for me. This is the best place for me to learn and develop because my heart is here with Wolfsburg… The club’s plan for my career is very encouraging and I believe with God on my side I can grow to become one of the best players in the world.”

Osimhen's time in Germany didn't go as planned as he failed to register a goal at Wolfsburg.

He however flourished on his loan deal with Belgian club Charlerio - a move which was later made permanent after a successful first season.

Osimhen's impressive goalscoring form earned him a move to French club Lille in 2019 before his big money move to Napoli a season later.

WDN