Osimhen: Super Eagles Star Named in Top 100 Most Influential Africans in 2023

• Victor Osimhen has been named among the 100 most influential Africans
• The Nigerian striker led Napoli to their first Serie A title in over 33 years
• The Super Eagles forward was voted as Africa’s greatest player for 2023

Nigeria and Napoli striker, Victor Osimhen has been named among the top 100 most influential Africans following his achievements on and off the football pitch.

The 24-year-old forward was recently voted as the 2023 African Footballer of the Year after ending Napoli’s title drought, leading the Italian club to their first Serie A title in 33 years.

According to The Punch, Osimhen - who scored 26 goals to win the Pichichi award in Italy last season - was listed alongside other top names like Afrobeats singers, Burna Boy and Tems.

The list, which is published by New African Magazine, has also listed some influential African leaders like Nigeria's President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Kenya's President, William Ruto.

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The list recognises and honours Africans from many disciplines and sectors who have made a positive impact on the continent and the world. This includes politicians, entrepreneurs, industrialists, environmentalists, creatives, scientists, educators, sports personalities, and more.

Osimhen to arrive at Nigeria camp

Meanwhile, Napoli striker and Africa Footballer of the Year, Osimhen is expected to arrive at the Super Eagles' Abu Dhabi camp today (January 4) to join the rest of the squad, Soccernet reports.

The 24-year-old forward is one of the late arrivals to the Nigeria Africa Cup of Nations camp, which is bubbling with 22 of the 25 invited players already present in the United Arab Emirates.

Another player also joining the Super Eagles camp on Thursday is vice-captain, William Troost Ekong, who is making a comeback to the national team after his last appearance in November 2022.

Osimhen backed for AFCON MVP

Sports Brief previously reported that former Chelsea star and ex-Nigeria captain, John Obi Mikel has backed Victor Osimhen to clinch the 2023 AFCON Player of the Tournament award.

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The 24-year-old Napoli forward is expected to play a critical role for the Super Eagles as Jose Peseiro’s team bids to win Africa’s biggest football competition for the first time since 2013.

Mikel, who was speaking on the expected outcomes of AFCON 2023, backed Osimhen to beat the likes of Mohamed Salah, Sadio Mane, and Mohammed Kudus to the top player accolade.