Victor Osimhen’s decision to accept a lucrative offer from a Saudi Arabian club is not just a football transfer—it’s a statement. It’s a powerful and deliberate act by one of Africa’s brightest stars who has, once again, taken control of his destiny in a world that has not always been kind to African talent. Critics may shout about “ambition” or “legacy,” but they fail to understand the deeper truths: the European football system has consistently undervalued, disrespected, and even humiliated African players, and Osimhen has chosen to rise above it.
Let’s be clear—this is the best decision Victor Osimhen could have made. Here’s why.
1. From Nigeria With Pride: Rewriting the African Football Narrative
Victor Osimhen was born in Lagos, Nigeria—he rose from the harsh realities of the streets to become a global football star. Yet, despite all his achievements, the European football structure has not fully embraced his story. Osimhen is not just any player—he is a symbol of hope, a product of grit, discipline, and divine favor. He doesn’t owe anyone a European fairytale ending. His journey is about dignity, power, and changing the game on his own terms.
Accepting the Saudi deal allows him to choose his own path, free from the hypocrisy of a system that celebrates African talent when it suits them but rarely shows them the respect they deserve.
2. Napoli’s Disgraceful Treatment: Betrayal After Glory
Victor Osimhen did the unthinkable—he helped Napoli win their first Serie A title in 33 years. He was their top scorer, their warrior, their talisman. And yet, what did he get in return?
He was mocked—publicly humiliated by his own club on social media. Imagine that. A player who gave his all, who made history for them, was reduced to a joke. That video posted on Napoli’s TikTok account, making fun of his missed penalty, was not just tone-deaf—it was disgraceful.
If this is how African heroes are treated after giving everything, then why stay?
3. A Rotten Reward System in Europe
Let’s face it: the Ballon d’Or, the UEFA awards, the media narratives—they rarely favor African players. Even when African players outperform others, they are overlooked. Look at the disrespect Sadio Mané faced despite his phenomenal performances. Look at how Mohamed Salah is constantly underrated.
The truth is harsh: African excellence is often seen as accidental in Europe—never intentional, never dominant. Osimhen choosing Saudi Arabia is a reminder that you don’t need European approval to be great. He has chosen a league that respects him, pays him, and treats him like the king he is.
4. Money, Yes—But Also Respect and Legacy
Of course, the financial rewards are massive—and rightfully so. Osimhen deserves every dollar. He has earned the right to secure generational wealth for himself, his family, and his community. He is not just playing football; he is rewriting the African legacy in sport.
The True Value of Osimhen: Europe’s Half-Measures
Despite being the talisman behind Napoli’s first Scudetto in 33 years and Europe’s Capocannoniere, European offers for Osimhen were good—but nowhere near what his impact merits:
Napoli reportedly offered him an annual net salary of €10 million, plus bonuses—xpanding from his previous €6.5 million + €1 million in 2023 .
Paris Saint-Germain made a pitch around €13 million net per year .
Chelsea was willing to match his Napoli earnings (~€10 million/year) along with a ~€70 million transfer bid .
These numbers are substantial—but today’s Osimhen deserves more than “just handsome.” He’s earned the right to be rewarded like royalty.
Saudi Arabia: A Leap of Respect and Wealth
The Saudi offer didn’t just match Europe—it blew past it:
Al Hilal reportedly offered €35 million net per year, or about £650,000 per week, in a package that nearly hit his €75 million release clause .
Al Ahli stepped in with between €30–40 million annually across a four-year deal .
In simple terms: Europe’s top clubs were offering around €10–13 million, while Saudi was offering three to four times that—up to €40 million and with release clauses far friendlier for Osimhen’s future.
Saudi clubs didn’t just see a player—they saw a king. And they treated him that way.
And let’s not forget—Saudi clubs are building something powerful. The league is competitive, professional, and increasingly respected. Cristiano Ronaldo, Benzema, Kante—they’ve all made the move. Why should Osimhen be ashamed of going where he’s appreciated?
5. The Bigger Picture: African Players Must Be Free
Too many African players have been exploited, underpaid, sidelined, and disrespected in Europe. From Samuel Eto’o to Yaya Touré, to even George Weah in his time, the stories are endless. Osimhen is saying: enough is enough.
His move is not just for him—it is for every African boy dreaming of stardom. It tells them: “Know your worth. Don’t let anyone define your greatness. The world is bigger than Europe.”
Conclusion: The Lion Has Roared
Victor Osimhen is not running away from greatness—he’s redefining it. He’s not chasing money—he’s commanding respect. His decision to join a Saudi club is not the end of his career; it is the beginning of something revolutionary.
For African footballers, this is a turning point.
For Victor Osimhen, it is a triumph.
And for the rest of us watching—it is a lesson in pride, purpose, and power.
