Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen has revealed that legendary Argentine footballer Diego Armando is the best of all time, Soccernet reports.
Osimhen joined Napoli in 2020 for a club record €72million, and the Nigerian striker has proved his worth. The 24-year-old Nigerian struggled to perform in his first few months at the club because of injuries.
However, Osimhen picked up in his second season and started delivering the good for the Partenopeans. The former Lille man registered 14 goals in 27 Serie A appearances, helping them qualify for the Champions League.
Last season, Osimhen came into his own fully. His presence at Napoli gave them a huge boost. He scored 26 goals in 32 league games, and his efforts eventually proved essential as Napoli won their first Scudetto in 33 years.
Osimhen also broke multiple goal records to become the first African winner of the Capocannoniere.
Following his accomplishments last season, Osimhen has been likened to legendary Maradona. The late Argentine star helped Napoli win their first-ever Scudetto in 1987 and helped them to their second three years later. However, Osimhen insists that Maradona was on another level and believes he is nowhere close.
“I can never be anything close to Maradona”, Napoli told Soccernet exclusively.
“For me, he is the best player in the whole world, especially for what he has done for the club. When I just came, I went on a tour, and how they idolise him is unbelievable. I can not qualify the feeling because of what he has given to the people and the City.
“He is a demigod here, and no player can come now, no matter the number of Scudetto that you win for the club, Maradona will always be a demigod at Napoli till the end of this world.
“For me to be able to come here and do my bit for the fans is a honour and a big privilege. I’ve seen murals where they drew me and Maradona together, it’s a big honour for me.
“Who would have thought that a boy from Olusosun would have his pictures on the walls of Napoli close to the greatest player ever?
“It’s like a dream, but there’s nothing a player can do here that would be close to what Maradona has done. I have huge respect for him.”
Osimhen’s spectacular displays last season have made him a target for some of the top clubs across Europe. Chelsea, Manchester United, Bayern Munich, and PSG have been linked with the Nigerian.
Nonetheless, it looks like he would stay put in Naples for another season as the club is offering a new contract.